Helical Push Wire Electrode

ABSTRACT

Helical push wire electrodes are provided. The electrodes may create a continuous helical lesion. One or more electrodes may wind around a support section and create a set of helixes having fixed ends and hitches. Pushing or pulling an end of the electrode transforms the electrodes between a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration such that the set of helixes expand or contract axially. Different portions of the electrodes may be surrounded by sleeves. The sleeves may regulate how the wires transform and provide insulation. Various insulation configurations of the electrodes may provide creations of discrete lesions, efficient energy delivery and reduced power consumption.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of neuromodulationand associated systems and methods. More particularly, some embodimentsrelate to the use of helical push wire electrode radio frequency (RF)ablation catheter apparatuses for intravascular neuromodulation (e.g.,renal neuromodulation) and associated systems and methods.

BACKGROUND

The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is primarily an involuntary bodilycontrol system associated with stress responses. Fibers of the SNSinnervate tissue and are present in almost every organ of the humanbody. The SNS can regulate characteristics such as pupil diameter, gutmotility, and urinary output. Such regulation has adaptive utility inmaintaining homeostasis or preparing the body for rapid responses tochanges in environmental conditions. Chronic activation of the SNS,however, is a common maladaptive response that can drive the progressionof many diseases. Excessive activation of the renal SNS, in particular,has been experimentally identified as a likely contributor to thecomplex pathophysiology of hypertension, volume overload states (such asheart failure), and progressive renal disease. Radiotracer dilution hasdemonstrated, for example, increased renal norepinephrine (“NE”)spillover rates in patients with essential hypertension.

Cardio-renal sympathetic nerve hyperactivity can be pronounced inpatients with heart failure. These patients often have an exaggerated NEoverflow of plasma from the heart and kidneys. Heightened SNS activationcommonly characterizes both chronic and end stage renal disease. Inpatients with end stage renal disease, NE plasma levels above the medianare predictive of cardiovascular diseases and causes of death. This isalso true for patients suffering from diabetic or contrast nephropathy.Evidence suggests that sensory afferent signals originating fromdiseased kidneys are major contributors to initiating and sustainingelevated central sympathetic outflow.

Sympathetic nerves innervating the kidneys terminate in the bloodvessels, the juxtaglomerular apparatus, and the renal tubules.Stimulation of the renal sympathetic nerves can cause increased reninrelease, increased sodium (Na+) reabsorption, and a reduction of renalblood flow. These neural regulation components of renal function areconsiderably stimulated in disease states characterized by heightenedsympathetic tone and likely contribute to increased blood pressure inhypertensive patients. The reduction of renal blood flow and glomerularfiltration rate because of renal sympathetic efferent stimulation islikely a cornerstone of the loss of renal function in cardio-renalsyndrome (i.e., renal dysfunction as a progressive complication ofchronic heart failure). Pharmacologic strategies to thwart theconsequences of renal efferent sympathetic stimulation include centrallyacting sympatholytic drugs, beta blockers (intended to reduce reninrelease), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and receptor blockers(intended to block the action of angiotensin II and aldosteroneactivation consequent to renin release), and diuretics (intended tocounter the renal sympathetic mediated sodium and water retention).These pharmacologic strategies, however, have significant limitationsincluding limited efficacy, compliance issues, side effects, and others.Recently, intravascular devices that reduce sympathetic nerve activityby applying an energy field to a target site in the renal artery (e.g.,via radiofrequency ablation) have been shown to reduce blood pressure inpatients with treatment-resistant hypertension.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a system in accordance with anembodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 2 is an anatomical view illustrating modulating renal nerves usinga system in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 3A is an anatomical view illustrating a distal portion of a shaftand a therapeutic assembly in a delivery state within a renal artery inaccordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 3B is an anatomical view illustrating the therapeutic assemblyshown in FIG. 3A in a deployed state within a renal artery.

FIG. 3C is an anatomical view illustrating the therapeutic assemblyshown in FIG. 3A in a deployed state within a renal artery.

FIG. 3D is a cross-sectional end view illustrating two electrodes havingdifferent cross-sectional shapes producing different temperature zonesin accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 3E is a profile view of a helical push wire electrode includingsensors in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 3F is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating a round coredwire and a flat cored wire in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent technology.

FIG. 4A is a plan view illustrating a therapeutic assembly in accordancewith an embodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 4B is a profile view illustrating a therapeutic assembly inaccordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 5A is a profile view illustrating a treatment device including anelongated shaft having different mechanical and functional regions inaccordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 5B is a profile view illustrating the treatment device shown inFIG. 5A in a delivery state.

FIG. 5C is a profile view illustrating the treatment device shown inFIG. 5A in a deployed state.

FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional end view illustrating the treatment deviceshown in FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5E is a profile view illustrating a distal support sectionincluding helical grooves in a delivery state in accordance with anembodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 5F is a cross-sectional end view illustrating the distal supportsection shown in FIG. 5E in a deployed state in accordance with anembodiment of the present technology.

FIG. 5G is a profile view illustrating a therapeutic assembly includingpush wire electrodes in accordance with an embodiment of the presenttechnology.

FIG. 6A is a profile view of a treatment device including a helical pushwire electrode in a delivery state in accordance with an embodiment ofthe present technology.

FIG. 6B is a profile view of the treatment device shown in FIG. 6A in adeployed state in accordance with an embodiment of the presenttechnology.

FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional end view of a treatment device including ahelical push wire electrode in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent technology.

FIG. 7 is a conceptual illustration of the sympathetic nervous system(SNS) and how the brain communicates with the body via the SNS.

FIG. 8 is an anatomical view of nerves innervating a left kidney to formthe renal plexus surrounding a left renal artery.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are anatomical and conceptual views, respectively,illustrating neural efferent and afferent communication between thebrain and kidneys.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are anatomical views of the arterial vasculature andvenous vasculature, respectively, of a human.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present technology, in accordance with one or more variousembodiments, is described in detail with reference to the accompanyingfigures. The drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only andmerely depict typical or example embodiments of the invention. Thesedrawings are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding of thesystems and methods described herein, and shall not be consideredlimiting of the breadth, scope, or applicability of the claimedinvention. The figures are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theembodiments to the precise form disclosed. It should be understood thatthe embodiments can be practiced with modification and alteration, andthat the invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalentsthereof.

The present technology is directed to apparatuses, systems, and methodsfor achieving electrically and/or thermally induced neuromodulation bypercutaneous transluminal intravascular access. In particular,embodiments of the present technology relate to apparatuses, systems,and methods that incorporate a catheter treatment device having ahelical push wire electrode between a delivery state (e.g., a generallystraight or elongated shape) and a deployed state (e.g., a radiallyexpanded, generally helical shape). The electrodes are configured todeliver energy (e.g., electrical energy, radio frequency (RF) energy,pulsed electrical energy, or thermal energy) to a vessel wall (e.g.,wall of a renal artery) after being advanced via a catheter along apercutaneous transluminal path (e.g., a femoral artery puncture, aniliac artery and aorta, a radial artery, or another suitableintravascular path). The helical push wire electrode is sized and shapedso that the electrodes contact an interior wall of the renal artery whenthe electrode is in the deployed (e.g., helical) state.

The helical shape of the deployed electrode allows blood to flow throughthe helix. This is expected to help prevent occlusion of the renalartery during activation of the electrode. Furthermore, blood flow inand around the electrode may cool the associated electrode and/or thesurrounding tissue. In some embodiments, cooling the electrode allowsfor the delivery of higher power levels at lower temperatures. Thisfeature is expected to help create deeper and/or larger lesions duringtherapy, reduce intimal surface temperature, and/or allow longeractivation times while reducing the risk of overheating duringtreatment.

Specific details of several embodiments of the present technology aredescribed herein with reference to the accompanying figures. Althoughmany of the embodiments are described herein with respect toapparatuses, systems, and methods for intravascular modulation of renalnerves using helical push wire electrodes, other treatment modalitiesand other nerves innervating other organs in addition to those describedherein are within the scope of the present technology. Additionally,other embodiments of the present technology can have configurations,components, or procedures different from those described herein. Forexample, other embodiments can include additional elements and featuresbeyond those described herein or be without several of the elements andfeatures shown and described herein.

Generally, unless the context indicates otherwise, the terms “distal”and “proximal” within this disclosure reference a position relative toan operator or an operator's control device. For example, “proximal” canrefer to a position closer to an operator or an operator's controldevice, and “distal” can refer to a position that is more distant froman operator or an operator's control device. The headings providedherein are for convenience only.

I. RENAL NEUROMODULATION

Renal neuromodulation is the partial or complete incapacitation or othereffective disruption of nerves innervating the kidneys. In particular,renal neuromodulation comprises inhibiting, reducing, and/or blockingneural communication along efferent and/or afferent neural fibersinnervating the kidneys. Such incapacitation can be for any length oftime—minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, years, or permanent. Renalneuromodulation is expected to effectively treat several clinicalconditions characterized by increased overall sympathetic activity,particularly conditions associated with central sympatheticoverstimulation such as hypertension, heart failure, acute myocardialinfarction, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetes, leftventricular hypertrophy, chronic and end stage renal disease,cardio-renal syndrome, osteoporosis and conditions causing suddendeaths. The reduction of afferent neural signals contributes to thesystemic reduction of sympathetic drive. Renal neuromodulation canpotentially benefit a variety of organs and bodily structures innervatedby sympathetic nerves. For example, a reduction in central sympatheticdrive may reduce insulin resistance that afflicts patients withmetabolic syndrome and Type II diabetes.

Various techniques can be used to partially or completely incapacitateneural pathways such as those innervating the kidney. The application ofenergy to tissue by the helical push wire electrode(s) can induce one ormore desired thermal heating effects on localized regions of the renalartery and adjacent regions of the renal plexus (RP), which lay withinor adjacent to the adventitia of the renal artery. The application ofthermal heating can achieve neuromodulation along all or a portion ofthe RP.

Desired effects of thermal heating may include raising the temperatureof target neural fibers above a desired threshold to achievenon-ablative or ablative thermal alteration (e.g., via sustained heatingand/or resistive heating). For example, the threshold temperature can beabove body temperature (about 37° C.) but less than about 45° C. fornon-ablative thermal alteration, or the threshold temperature can beabout 45° C. or higher for ablative thermal alteration.

More specifically, exposure to thermal heating between about 37° C. and45° C. may induce thermal alteration of the target neural fibers or ofvascular structures that perfuse the target fibers. In cases wherevascular structures are affected, the target neural fibers are deniedperfusion, resulting in necrosis of the neural tissue. Exposure tothermal heating above 45° C. (or above 60° C. in other cases) may inducethermal ablation of the target neural fibers or the vascular structures.In some patients, it may be desirable to achieve temperatures thatthermally ablate the target neural fibers or the vascular structures,but that are less than about 90° C., or less than about 85° C., or lessthan about 80° C., and/or less than about 75° C. Regardless of the levelor type of heat exposure utilized to induce thermal neuromodulation, areduction in renal sympathetic nerve activity (“RSNA”) is expected.

II. SELECTED EMBODIMENTS OF CATHETER APPARATUSES HAVING A HELICAL PUSHWIRE ELECTRODE

FIG. 1 illustrates a system 1 in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent technology. The system 1 includes a renal neuromodulation system10 (“system 10”). The system 10 includes an intravascular orintraluminal treatment device 12 that is operably coupled to an energysource or console 26. Energy source or console 26 can include, forexample, an RF energy generator, a cryotherapy console, an ultrasonicsignal generator or other energy source. In the embodiment shown in FIG.1, the treatment device 12 (e.g., a catheter) includes an elongatedshaft 16 having a proximal portion 18, a handle 34 at a proximal regionof the proximal portion 18, and a distal portion 20 extending distallyrelative to the proximal portion 18. The treatment device 12 furtherincludes a therapeutic assembly or treatment section 21 at the distalportion 20 of the shaft 16. The therapeutic assembly 21 can include ahelical push wire electrode 22 and a distal electrode support section24, which are configured to be delivered to a renal blood vessel (e.g.,a renal artery) in a delivery configuration.

A lumen runs the entire length of an elongated shaft 16 where a wire(not shown) can be routed. In various embodiments, the entire wire is anelectrode configured to be energized and to create a continuous helicallesion within an artery.

The material of the wire is flexible such that the pre-formed helicalshape may expand and contract to different diameters so that it can beused in arteries of different sizes. In addition, the wire may havedifferent cross-sectional shapes. For example, the wire can be a roundwire, flat wire, or wire of other geometry. A flat wire allowsflexibility in the radial direction (i.e., it allows the wire to expandin diameter upon deployment), yet provides greater resistance in theaxial direction both of which provide more consistent contact with theartery wall which will be described in greater detail later.

Upon delivery to the target treatment site within the renal bloodvessel, the therapeutic assembly 21 is further configured to be placedinto a treatment or deployed state (e.g., a generally helical or spiralconfiguration) for delivering energy at the treatment site and providingelectrically induced and/or thermally induced renal neuromodulation. Insome embodiments, the therapeutic assembly 21 may be placed ortransformed into the deployed state or arrangement via actuation, e.g.,via an actuator 36, such as a knob, button, pin, or lever carried by thehandle 34. In other embodiments, however, the therapeutic assembly 21may be transformed between the delivery and deployed states using othersuitable mechanisms or techniques.

The wire could include discrete sections of insulation along its lengthto allow the wire to form discrete lesions. Without insulation, theentire wire is an electrode, which, when expanded, may create acontinuous helical lesion. Insulating various or selected portions ofthe wire creates a patterned electrode having a plurality of conductivesections separated by the insulated portions. Even though the entirewire still carries electrical current, the insulated portions or areasare restricted from delivering energy to tissues. As a result, discreteelectrodes are provided to create discrete lesions. A flat or round wireelectrode may include insulation on its inner surface, which wouldprevent RF energy dissipation into the bloodstream. As such, theelectrode may provide a greater percentage of its power into the tissue,thus reducing the necessary power levels.

The proximal end of the therapeutic assembly 21 is carried by or affixedto the distal portion 20 of the elongated shaft 16. A distal end of thetherapeutic assembly 21 may terminate with, for example, an atraumaticrounded tip or cap (e.g., cover 129 in FIG. 5 b). Alternatively, thedistal end of the therapeutic assembly 21 may be configured to engageanother element of the system 10 or treatment device 12. For example,the distal end of the therapeutic assembly 21 may define a passagewayfor engaging a guide wire (not shown) for delivery of the treatmentdevice using over-the-wire (“OTW”) or rapid exchange (“RX”) techniques.

The energy source or console 26 is configured to generate a selectedform and magnitude of energy for delivery to the target treatment sitevia therapeutic assembly 21. The energy generator 26 can be electricallycoupled to the treatment device 12 via a cable 28. At least one supplywire (not shown) passes along the elongated shaft 16 or through a lumenin the elongated shaft 16 to one or more helical push wire electrodes 22and transmits the treatment energy to one or more helical push wireelectrodes 22. In some embodiments, each helical push wire electrode 22includes its own supply wire which would allow for each helical pushwire electrode 22 to be independently energized in a sequential orexclusive manner. In other embodiments, however, two or more helicalpush wire electrodes 22 may be electrically coupled to the same supplywire. The supply wire may be used as a thermocouple wire and may be usedto transmit temperature and impedance measurements taken at the distalcap. A control mechanism, such as foot pedal 32 or other operatorcontrol, may be connected (e.g., pneumatically connected or electricallyconnected) to the console to allow the operator to initiate, terminateand/or adjust various operational characteristics of the energygenerator such as power delivery.

The system 10 may also include a remote control device (not shown) thatcan be positioned in a sterile field and operably coupled to thetherapeutic assembly 21. The remote control device can be configured toallow for selective activation of the therapeutic assembly 21. Forexample, the remote control device can be configured to allow theoperator to initiate, terminate and, optionally, adjust variousoperational characteristics of the energy generator. In someembodiments, a control mechanism (not shown) may be built into thehandle assembly 34, allowing the operator control through the actuationof buttons, switches or other mechanisms on the handle assembly 34.

The energy source 26 can be configured to deliver the treatment energyunder the control of an automated control algorithm 30, under thecontrol of the clinician, or a combination thereof. In addition, theenergy source or console 26 may include one or more evaluation orfeedback algorithms 31 that can be configured to accept information andprovide feedback to the clinician before, during, and/or after therapy.Feedback can be audible, visual or haptic. The feedback can be based onoutput from a monitoring system (not shown). The monitoring system canbe a system including sensors or other monitoring devices integratedwith treatment device 12, sensors or other monitoring devices separatefrom treatment device 12, or a combination thereof. The monitoringdevices of the monitoring system can be configured to measure conditionsat the treatment site (e.g., the temperature of the tissue beingtreated), systemic conditions (e.g., patient vital signs), or otherconditions germane to the treatment, health, and safety of the patient.

In some embodiments, the system 10 may be configured to provide deliveryof a monopolar electric field via the helical push wire electrodes 22.In such embodiments, a neutral or dispersive electrode 38 may beelectrically connected to the energy generator 26 and attached to theexterior of the patient (as shown in FIG. 2). In other embodiments, thesystem 10 may be configured to provide delivery of a bipolar electricfield via the helical push wire electrodes 22. The helical push wireelectrode 22 may deliver power between desired portions of the electrodeto form a closed circuit within the artery thereby eliminating the needto use the neutral or dispersive electrode 38. Additionally, one or moresensors (not shown), such as one or more temperature (e.g.,thermocouple, thermistor, etc.), impedance, pressure, optical, flow,chemical or other sensors, may be located proximate to or within thehelical push wire electrodes 22 and connected to one or more supplywires (not shown). For example, a total of two supply wires may beincluded, in which both wires could transmit the signal from the sensorand one wire could serve dual purpose and also convey the energy to thehelical push wire electrodes 22. Alternatively, a different number ofsupply wires may be used to transmit energy to the helical push wireelectrodes 22.

The energy source 26 can further include a device or monitor that mayinclude processing circuitry such as one or more microprocessors, and adisplay 33. The processing circuitry may be configured to execute storedinstructions relating to the control algorithm 30. The energy source 26may be configured to communicate with the treatment device 12 (e.g., viathe cable 28) to control the neuromodulation assembly and/or to sendsignals to or receive signals from the monitoring system. The display 33may be configured to indicate power levels or sensor data visually, byaudio, or other means, or may be configured to communicate theinformation to another device. The console 26 may also be operablycoupled to a catheter lab screen or system for displaying treatmentinformation (e.g., nerve activity before and after treatment, effects ofablation, efficacy of ablation of nerve tissue, lesion location, lesionsize, etc.).

The energy source or console 26 can be configured to control, monitor,supply, or otherwise support operation of the treatment device 12. Inother embodiments, the treatment device 12 can be self-contained and/orotherwise configured for operation without connection to the energysource or console 26. As shown in the example of FIG. 1, the energysource or console 26 can include a primary housing having a display 33.

In some embodiments, the energy source or console 26 can include aprocessing device or module (not shown) having processing circuitry suchas a microprocessor. The processing device can be configured to executestored instructions relating to the control algorithm 30, theevaluation/feedback algorithm 31 and other functions. Furthermore, theenergy source or console 26 can be configured to communicate with thetreatment device 12 via cable 28. For example, the therapeutic assembly21 of the treatment device 12 can include a sensor (not shown) (e.g., arecording electrode, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, or a flowrate sensor) and a sensor lead (not shown) (e.g., an electrical lead ora pressure lead) configured to carry a signal from the sensor to thehandle 34. The cable 28 can be configured to carry the signal from thehandle 34 to the energy source or console 26.

The energy source or console 26 can have different configurationsdepending on the treatment modality of the treatment device 12. Forexample, when the treatment device 12 is configured for electrode-basedor transducer-based treatment, the energy source or console 26 caninclude an energy generator (not shown) configured to generate RFenergy, pulsed energy, microwave energy, optical energy, focusedultrasound energy, heat energy, or another suitable type of energy. Insome embodiments, the energy source or console 26 can include an RFgenerator operably coupled to one or more electrodes (not shown) of thetherapeutic assembly 21.

FIG. 2 illustrates one example of modulating renal nerves with anembodiment of the system 10. In this embodiment, the treatment device 12provides access to the renal plexus (RP) through an intravascular path(P), such as a percutaneous access site in the femoral (illustrated),brachial, radial, or axillary artery to a targeted treatment site withina respective renal artery (RA). As illustrated, a section of theproximal portion 18 of the shaft 16 is exposed outside the patient. Bymanipulating the proximal portion 18 of the shaft 16 from outside theintravascular path (P), the clinician may advance the shaft 16 throughthe intravascular path (P) and remotely manipulate the distal portion 20of the shaft 16. Image guidance technology, for example, computedtomography (CT), fluoroscopy, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), opticalcoherence tomography (OCT), or another suitable guidance modality, orcombinations thereof, may be used to aid the clinician's manipulation.Furthermore, in some embodiments image guidance components (e.g., IVUS,OCT) may be incorporated into the treatment device 12.

After the therapeutic assembly 21 is adequately positioned in the renalartery (RA), it can be radially expanded or otherwise deployed using thehandle 34 or other suitable means until the neuromodulation assembly ispositioned at its target site and the nerve-monitoring device is instable contact with the inner wall of the renal artery (RA). Energy isthen applied from the neuromodulation assembly to induce one or moredesired neuromodulating effects on localized regions of the renal arteryand adjacent regions of the renal plexus (RP), which lay intimatelywithin, adjacent to, or in close proximity to the adventitia of therenal artery (RA). The application of energy may achieve neuromodulationalong all or at least a portion of the renal plexus (RP).

In some embodiments, the helical push wire electrodes 22 of thetherapeutic assembly 21 may be proximate to, adjacent to, or carried by(e.g., adhered to, threaded over, wound over, and/or crimped to) adistal electrode support section 24. The proximal end of the distalelectrode support section 24 is preferably coupled to the distal portion20 of the elongated shaft 16 via a coupling (not shown). The couplingmay be an integral component of the elongated shaft 16 (i.e., may not bea separate piece) or the coupling may be a separate piece such as acollar (e.g., a radiopaque band) wrapped around an exterior surface ofthe elongated shaft 16 to secure distal electrode support section 24 tothe elongated shaft 16. In other embodiments, however, distal electrodesupport section 24 may be associated with the elongated shaft 16 usinganother arrangement and/or different features.

In some embodiments, the therapeutic assembly 21 may function withmultiple helical push wire electrodes 22 associated with the same distalelectrode support section 24. When multiple helical push wire electrodes22 are provided, the helical push wire electrodes 22 may deliver powerindependently (i.e., may be used in a monopolar fashion), eithersimultaneously, selectively, or sequentially, and/or may deliver powerbetween any desired combination of the elements (i.e., may be used in abipolar fashion). Furthermore, a user may choose which helical push wireelectrode(s) 22 are used for power delivery in order to form highlycustomized lesion(s) within the renal artery having a variety of shapesor patterns.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view illustrating one embodiment of thedistal portion 20 of the shaft 16 and the therapeutic assembly 21 in adelivery state (e.g., low-profile or collapsed configuration) within arenal artery RA. FIGS. 3B and 3C illustrate the therapeutic assembly 21in a deployed state (e.g., expanded or helical configuration) within therenal artery. Referring to FIG. 3A, the collapsed or deliveryarrangement of the therapeutic assembly 21 defines a low profile aboutthe longitudinal axis A-A of the assembly such that a transversedimension of the therapeutic assembly 21 is sufficiently small to definea clearance distance between an arterial wall 55 and the treatmentdevice 12. The delivery state facilitates insertion and/or removal ofthe treatment device 12 and, if desired, repositioning of thetherapeutic assembly 21 within the renal artery RA.

In the collapsed configuration where the helical push wire electrodes 22are in contact with the distal electrode support section 24, forexample, the geometry of distal electrode support section 24 facilitatesmovement of the therapeutic assembly 21 through a guide catheter 90 tothe treatment site in the renal artery RA. Moreover, in the collapsedconfiguration, the therapeutic assembly 21 is sized and shaped to fitwithin the renal artery RA and has a diameter that is less than a renalartery inner diameter 52 and a length (from a proximal end of thetherapeutic assembly 21 to a distal end of the therapeutic assembly 21)that is less than a renal artery length 54. Furthermore, as described ingreater detail below, the geometry of the support structure 24 isarranged to define a maximum transverse dimension about its central axisin the collapsed delivery state that is less than the renal artery innerdiameter 52 and a maximum length in the direction of the central axisthat is preferably less than the renal artery length 54. In oneembodiment, the maximum diameter of the therapeutic assembly 21 in thecollapsed delivery state is approximately equal to or slightly less thanthe interior diameter of the elongated shaft 16.

The distal portion 20 of the shaft 16 may flex in a substantial fashionto gain entrance into a respective renal artery by following a pathdefined by a guide catheter, a guide wire, or a sheath. For example, theflexing of distal portion 20 may be imparted by the guide catheter 90,such as a renal guide catheter with a preformed bend near the distal endthat directs the shaft 16 along a desired path from the percutaneousinsertion site to the renal artery RA. In another embodiment, thetreatment device 12 may be directed to the treatment site within therenal artery RA by engaging and tracking a guide wire (e.g., guide wire66 of FIG. 2) that is inserted into the renal artery RA and extends tothe percutaneous access site. In operation, the guide wire preferably isdelivered first into the renal artery RA and the elongated shaft 16comprising a guide wire lumen is then passed over the guide wire intothe renal artery RA. In some guide wire procedures, a tubular deliverysheath may be passed over the guide wire (i.e., the lumen defined by thedelivery sheath slides over the guide wire) into the renal artery RA.Once the delivery sheath is placed in the renal artery RA, the guidewire may be removed and exchanged for a treatment catheter (e.g.,treatment device 12) that may be delivered through the delivery sheathinto the renal artery RA.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the distal portion 20 can be directedor “steered” into the renal artery RA via the handle assembly 34 (FIGS.1 and 2), for example, by an actuatable element 36 or by another controlelement. In particular, the flexing of the elongated shaft 16 may beaccomplished as provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/545,648,“Apparatus, Systems, and Methods for achieving Intravascular,Thermally-Induced Renal Neuromodulation” to Wu et al., which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Alternatively, or inaddition, the treatment device 12 and its distal portion 20 may beflexed by being inserted through a steerable guide catheter (not shown)that includes a preformed or steerable bend near its distal end that canbe adjusted or re-shaped by manipulation from the proximal end of theguide catheter.

The maximum outer dimensions (e.g., diameter) of any section of thetreatment device 12, including elongated shaft 16 and the helical pushwire electrodes 22 of the therapeutic assembly 21 can be defined by aninner diameter of the guide catheter 90 through which the device 12 ispassed. In one particular embodiment, for example, an 8 French guidecatheter having, for example, an inner diameter of approximately 0.091inch (2.31 mm) may be used as a guide catheter to access the renalartery. Allowing for a reasonable clearance tolerance between helicalpush wire electrodes 22 and the guide catheter, the maximum outerdimension of the therapeutic assembly 21 is generally less than or equalto approximately 0.085 inch (2.16 mm).

After locating the therapeutic assembly 21 at the distal portion 20 ofthe shaft 16 in the renal artery RA, the therapeutic assembly 21 istransformed from its delivery state to its deployed state or deployedarrangement. The transformation may be initiated using an arrangement ofdevice components as described herein with respect to the particularembodiments and their various modes of deployment. As described ingreater detail below and in accordance with one or more embodiments ofthe present technology, the therapeutic assembly may be deployed by acontrol member. The control member may be, for example, a guide wire, ashaft or stylet engaged internally or externally with the supportstructure of the therapeutic assembly to apply a deforming or shapingforce to the assembly to transform it into its deployed state. Further,the modality used to transform the therapeutic assembly 21 from thedelivery state into the deployed state may, in various embodiments, bereversed to transform the therapeutic assembly 21 back to the deliverystate from the deployed state.

Pulling the wire in tension from the proximal end of the cathetercollapses the helix into a delivery configuration for delivery into therenal artery. Once in position, the wire is pushed in compression fromthe proximal end of the catheter and the wire is forced to expand into apreformed helical shape making contact with the renal artery wall. RFenergy may be delivered to the wire and a helical lesion is formed.

Further manipulation of the helical push wire electrodes 22 within therespective renal artery RA establishes apposition of the therapeuticassembly 21 against the tissue along an interior wall of the respectiverenal artery RA. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, thetherapeutic assembly 21 is expanded within the renal artery RA such thatthe helical push wire electrodes 22 are in contact with the renal arterywall 55. In some embodiments, manipulation of the proximal portion mayfacilitate contact between the helical push wire electrodes 22 and thewall of the renal artery. The helical push wire electrodes 22 areoperated such that the contact force between the renal artery inner wall55 and the helical push wire electrodes 22 does not exceed a maximumvalue. For example, the deployment mechanism may comprise a gauge toensure that the contact force between the therapeutic assembly 21 andthe artery wall 55 is less than a predetermined value for arteries ofdifferent sizes. In addition, the helical push wire electrodes 22 andthe distal electrode support section 24 may provide for a consistentcontact force against the arterial wall 55 that may allow for consistentlesion formation.

The alignment may also include alignment of geometrical aspects of thehelical push wire electrodes 22 with the renal artery wall 55. Invarious embodiments, a helical push wire electrode may be surrounded bya proximal sleeve and/or a 26 b distal sleeve 26 a. The proximal sleeveand the distal sleeve may be positioned such that the electrode remainsas close to the central longitudinal axis of the helix as possible whenexiting from the proximal shaft section. In another embodiment, thehelical push wire electrodes 22 may have a non-rounded shape with anactive surface can be aligned such that the active surface is in contactwith the artery wall 55. Such alignment may be provided by the proximalsleeve 26 b. For example, the shape of the electrode and the dimensionsof the distal sleeve 26 a and/or the proximal sleeve 26 b may beselected such that the electrode 22 fits snugly into the sleeves 26Aand/or 26 b and is prevented from twisting. As best seen in FIGS. 3B and3C, in the deployed state, the therapeutic assembly 21 definessubstantially helical push wire electrodes 22, when expanded, in contactwith the renal artery wall 55 along a helical path. One advantage ofthis arrangement is that pressure from the helical structure can beapplied to a large range of radial directions without applying pressureto a circumference of the vessel. Thus, the helically-shaped therapeuticassembly 21 is expected to provide stable contact between the helicalpush wire electrodes 22 and the artery wall 55 when the wall moves inany direction. Still another feature of the expanded helical structureis that it may contact the vessel wall in a large range of radialdirections and maintain a sufficiently open lumen in the vessel allowingblood to flow through the helix during therapy. The helical push wireelectrodes 22 may also be well suited for tortuous anatomy. Because thehelical push wire electrodes 22 are flexible, they can be manipulatedthrough bends in arteries, and, when positioned, can still expand andcreate good contact with the inner lumen of the arteries. As illustratedin FIG. 3B, in the deployed state, the helical push wire electrodes 22define a maximum axial length of the therapeutic assembly 21 that isapproximately equal to or less than a renal artery length 54 of a mainrenal artery (i.e., a section of a renal artery proximal to abifurcation). Because this length can vary from patient to patient, itis envisioned that the deployed helical push wire electrodes 22 may befabricated in different sizes (e.g., with varying lengths L and/ordiameters D as shown in FIG. 4A) that may be appropriate for differentpatients. Referring to FIGS. 3B and 3C, in the deployed state, thehelical-shaped therapeutic assembly 21 provides circumferentiallycontinuous contact between the helical push wire electrodes 22 and theinner wall 55 of the renal artery RA. That is, the helical path maycomprise a partial arc (i.e., <360°), a complete arc (i.e., 360°) or amore than complete arc (i.e., >360°) along the inner wall of a vesselabout the longitudinal axis of the vessel. In some embodiments, however,the arc is not substantially in one plane normal to the central axis ofthe artery, but instead preferably defines an obtuse angle with thecentral axis of the artery. The helical-shaped therapeutic assembly 21may also provide circumferentially discrete lesions by includingdiscrete sections of insulation along its length to allow the wire toform discrete lesions. Insulating various or selected portions of thewire creates a patterned electrode having a plurality of conductivesections separated by the insulated portions. The entire helical pushwire electrodes 22, when deployed, create a circumferentially continuouscontact with the inner wall 55 of the renal artery. The insulatedportions or areas are restricted from delivering energy to tissuesdespite still making contact with the inner wall 55. As a result, thenon-insulated portions or areas delivers energy to tissues and discretelesions are created.

In various embodiments, the helical push wire electrodes 22 may beformed of electrically conductive materials such as pre-shaped nitinolwire, cable, or tubing. A deployed electrode 22, in helical structure,may form a contact region with the renal artery wall. In thisconfiguration, the helical electrode 22 is capable of producing acontinuous helical lesion. Referring to FIG. 3E, in some embodiments,the helical push wire electrode 22 may comprise sensors 33 positionedon, in, and/or proximate to the electrodes 22 and may be electricallyconnected to supply wires 35. Supply wires 35 connect the electrodes toan energy source (not shown) and deliver energy (e.g., RF electricalcurrent) to the electrodes 22.

A. The Helical Structure

FIG. 4A is a plan view of an embodiment of a therapeutic or treatmentassembly 21 for use with a treatment device (e.g., treatment device 12)in accordance with an embodiment of the technology, and FIG. 4B is anisometric view of the therapeutic assembly 21 of FIG. 4A. Variousembodiments may comprise multiple helical push wire electrodes to createmultiple helical lesions. For example, in the illustrated example, thetreatment assembly 21 comprises helical push wire electrodes 401 and402. The therapeutic assembly 21 may comprise a plurality of helicalpush wire electrodes. The helical electrodes 401 and 402 wind around thedistal electrode support section and are axially and radially spacedfrom one another.

The helical push wire electrodes 401 and 402 may exit the elongatedshaft 16 at its distal end through proximal sleeves 26 b. Beyond theproximal sleeves 26 b, the helical push wire electrodes 401 and 402 maywind around the distal electrode support section 24 in a helical shape.The proximal sleeves 26 b may be fixed to the elongated shaft 16 and thedistal electrode support section 24. The distal end of the helical pushwire electrodes 401 and 402 are fixed to the distal end of the distalelectrode support section 24, which is also the distal end of thetherapeutic assembly 21 (shown in FIG. 1).

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a helix may be characterized, at least inpart, by its overall diameter D, length L, helix angle α (an anglebetween a tangent line to the helix and its axis), pitch HP(longitudinal distance of one complete helix turn measured parallel toits axis), and number of revolutions (number of times the helixcompletes a 360° revolution about its axis).

In particular, the deployed or expanded configuration of the helix maybe characterized by its axial length L along the axis of elongation infree space, e.g., not restricted by a vessel wall or other structure. Insome embodiments, the distal tip of the electrode 22 a is fixed to thedistal electrode support section 24 and the exit point 22 c of theelectrode from the shaft 16 is also fixed. Accordingly, the exit point22 c of the electrode from the shaft 16 is a fixed distance L away fromthe distal end of the distal support section 24. As the helical pushwire electrode 22 radially expands from its delivery state, its diameterD increases and its length L remains constant. A constant length distalsection can work well for short renal arteries where the length may notaccommodate insertion and elongation for expansion or deployment of atherapeutic device. Further, the pitch of the helix can be fixed, (i.e.,the number of turns on the helix can be fixed regardless of the patientanatomy).

In one embodiment, the distal end portions 22 a of the helicalelectrodes 401 and 402 are fixedly coupled to the distal end of thetherapeutic assembly, which is also the distal end of the distalelectrode support section. Pulling the wire and thereby creating tensionfrom the proximal end of the catheter collapses the helix into thedelivery configuration for delivery into the renal artery. Once inposition, the wire is pushed and thereby compressed from the proximalend of the catheter, causing the wire to expand into a helical shapethat makes contact with the renal artery wall. RF energy is delivered tothe wire and a helical lesion is formed.

Referring to FIG. 4B, the deployed helical electrodes 22 may comprise anatraumatic (e.g., rounded) tip 50. The tip 50 may reduce the risk ofinjuring the blood vessel as the helical structure is advancing andexpanding and/or as a delivery sheath is retracted, and may facilitatealignment of the helical structure in a vessel as it expands. The tip 50can be made from a polymer or metal that is fixed to the end of thestructural element by adhesive, welding, crimping, over-molding, and/orsoldering. In other embodiments, the tip 50 may be made from the samematerial as the structural element and fabricated into the tip 50 bymachining or melting. In further embodiments, the tip 50 may comprise anenergy delivery element or a radiopaque marker.

As shown in FIG. 4B, the proximal sleeves 26 b surround the proximalportions 22 b of the helical electrodes 401 and 402. The distal sleeves26 a surround the distal portions 22 a of the helical electrodes 401 and402. The proximal sleeves 26 b and/or the distal sleeves 26 a may bepositioned as close as possible to the surface of the distal electrodesupport section. Accordingly, the proximal sleeves and/or the distalsleeves may uphold the helical shape when the electrodes are deployed.When transitioning from the delivery configuration to the deploymentconfiguration, the proximal portions 22 b and the distal portions 22 amay move away from the central longitudinal axis. Especially when thehelical electrodes 401 and 402 expand, the electrodes tend to expandaway from the central axis as opposed to having an intertwined set ofhelical shapes.

In addition, the proximal sleeves 26 b prevent the proximal portions 22b from buckling and forming a sharp angle, which may increase thefriction between the therapeutic assembly and the artery wall. Theproximal sleeve is shaped to allow the wire to exit at a predeterminedexit angle, for example, (0-30°) from the proximal shaft section. Theproximal sleeve may be sufficiently flexible to allow it to collapseonto the distal electrode support section 24, yet stiff enough toprovide control of the exit angle. The proximal sleeves 26 b and/or thedistal sleeves 26 a may also provide lubrication or a low-frictionsurface to allow sliding the wire to expand or contract the helicalstructure. The proximal sleeves 26 b and the distal sleeves 26 a may beformed from biocompatible metals and/or polymers, including polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), polyamide, polyimide, polyethylene block amidecopolymer, polypropylene, or polyether ether ketone (PEEK) polymers. Theproximal sleeves 26 b and the distal sleeves 26 a may further insulatethe wire to prevent energy from being dissipated into the bloodstreamand from being wasted. In some embodiments, the distal sleeves 26 a maynot be a separate sleeve (i.e. tubular structure with a lumen) at allbut could be a coating or lamination (e.g., a parylene lining) aroundthe push wire electrode.

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B (and with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B),the dimensions of the deployed helically shaped structure 22 areinfluenced by its physical characteristics and its configuration (e.g.,expanded vs. unexpanded), which in turn may be selected with renalartery geometry in mind. For example, the axial length L of the deployedhelical structure may be selected to be no longer than a patient's renalartery (e.g., the length 54 of renal artery RA of FIGS. 3A and 3B). Forexample, the distance between the access site and the ostium of therenal artery (the distance from a femoral access site to the renalartery is typically about 40 cm to about 55 cm) is generally greaterthan the length of a renal artery from the aorta and the most distaltreatment site along the length of the renal artery, which is typicallyless than about 7 cm. Accordingly, it is envisioned that the elongatedshaft 16 is at least 40 cm and the helical structure is less than about7 cm in its the axial length L. A length of no more than about 4 cm maybe suitable for use in a large population of patients. However, ashorter length (e.g., less than about 2 cm) may be used in patients withshorter renal arteries. The helical structure 22 may also be designed towork with typical renal artery diameters. For example, the diameter 52(FIG. 3A) of the renal artery RA may vary between about 2 mm and about10 mm.

In one embodiment, a section of or the entire helical push wireelectrode of the therapeutic assembly 21, when allowed to fully deployto an unconstrained configuration (i.e., outside of the body as shown inFIGS. 4A and 4B), comprises a helical shape having a diameter D lessthan about 15 mm (e.g., about 12 mm, 10 mm, 8 mm, or 6 mm); a length Lless than or equal to about 40 mm (e.g., less than about 25 mm, lessthan about 20 mm, less than about 15 mm); a helix angle α of betweenabout 20° and 75° (e.g., between about 35° and 55°); a range ofrevolutions between 0.25 and 6 (e.g., between 0.75 and 2, between 0.75and 1.25); and a pitch HP between about 5 mm and 20 mm (e.g., betweenabout 7 mm and 13 mm). In another example, the therapeutic assembly 21may be configured to expand radially from its delivery state with adiameter about its central axis being approximately 10 mm to a deliverystate in which the entire or a portion of the helical push wireelectrode 22 are in contact with the artery wall. The foregoingdimensions and angles are associated with specific embodiments of thetechnology, and it will be appreciated that therapeutic assembliesconfigured in accordance with other embodiments of the technology mayhave different arrangements and/or configurations.

In some embodiments, the deployed helical push wire electrode 22 may begenerally cylindrical (i.e., a helical diameter can be consistent alonga majority of its length). The helical push wire electrode 22, however,may have a conical helical shape, a tapered structural element, aclockwise or counterclockwise pathway, and consistent or varied pitch.

In one embodiment, the distal electrode support section 24 can include asolid structural element, such as, a wire, tube, or coiled or braidedcable. The distal electrode support section 24 may be formed frombiocompatible metals and/or polymers, including polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), polyamide, polyimide, polyethylene block amidecopolymer, polypropylene, or polyether ether ketone (PEEK) polymers. Insome embodiments, the distal electrode support section 24 may beelectrically nonconductive, electrically conductive (e.g., stainlesssteel, nitinol, silver, platinum, nickel-cobalt-chromium-molybdenumalloy), or a combination of electrically conductive and nonconductivematerials. In one particular embodiment, for example, the distalelectrode support section 24 may be formed of a pre-shaped material,such as spring temper stainless steel or nitinol.

Generally, the helical push wire electrode 22 may be designed to apply adesired outward radial force to the renal artery wall 55 (FIGS. 3A and3B) when inserted and expanded to contact the inner surface of the renalartery wall 55 (FIGS. 3A and 3B). The radial force may be selected toavoid injury to the patient from stretching or distending the renalartery RA when the helical push wire electrode 22 is expanded againstthe artery wall 55. Radial forces that may avoid injuring the renalartery RA yet provide adequate stabilization force may be determined bycalculating the radial force exerted on an artery wall by typical bloodpressure. For example, a suitable radial force may be less than or equalto about 300 mN/mm (e.g., less than 200 mN/mm). Factors that mayinfluence the applied radial force include the geometry and thestiffness of the helical push wire electrode 22. In one particularembodiment, the helical push wire electrode 22 is about 0.003-0.020 inch(0.08-0.51 mm) in diameter. Depending on the composition of the helicalpush wire electrode 22, the structural element diameter may be selectedto facilitate a desired conformability and/or radial force against therenal artery when expanded. The outward pressure of the helical pushwire electrode 22 may be assessed by an associated pressure transducer.

In addition, certain secondary processes, including heat treating andannealing may harden or soften the fiber material to affect strength andstiffness. In particular, for shape-memory alloys such as nitinol, thesesecondary processes may be varied to give the same starting materialdifferent final properties. For example, the elastic range or softnessmay be increased to impart improved flexibility. The secondaryprocessing of shape memory alloys influences the transition temperature,that is, the temperature at which the structure exhibits a desiredradial strength and stiffness. In embodiments that employ shape memoryproperties, the transition temperature may be set at normal bodytemperature (e.g., around 37° C.) or in a range between about 37° C. and45° C. In other embodiments that comprise super elastic nitinol, atransition temperature can be well below body temperature, for examplebelow 0° C. Alternatively, the helical structure may be formed from anelastic or super elastic material such as nitinol that is thermallyengineered into a desired helical shape. Alternatively, the helical pushwire electrode 22 may be formed from multiple materials such as one ormore metals. Various embodiments may be made of cored materials, suchas, for example, materials having a core of a first metal and an outershell of a second metal (e.g., Nitinol/tantalum and SST/Nitinol). Asillustrated in FIG. 3F, a round cored wire 300 a and a flat cored wire300 b may be made having a tantalum core and a Nitinol outer layer.Although these examples show cores 302, 304 made of the tantalum andouter layers 301, 303 made of Nitinol, other materials can be used.

Referring back to FIGS. 3B and 3C, it should be understood that thehelical push wire electrode 22 of the treatment assembly 21, when notinserted into a patient, is capable of deploying to a maximum diameterthat is larger than the diameter in its delivery state. Further, thehelical push wire electrode 22 may be sized so that the maximum diameteris larger than the lumen diameter 52 of the renal artery RA. Wheninserted into a patient and transformed to the deployed state, however,the helical push wire electrode 22 expands radially to span the renalartery lumen and, at its largest circumferential section, isapproximately or slightly less than (e.g., in embodiments in which theenergy delivery elements 24 fill some of the space) the diameter 52 ofthe renal artery RA. A slight amount of vessel distension may be causedwithout undue injury and the electrode 22 may expand such that itslargest circumferential section is slightly more than the diameter 52 ofthe renal artery RA, or such that one or more portions of the electrodeare slightly pressed into the wall 55 of the renal artery RA. Ahelically-shaped assembly or array that causes slight and non-injuriousdistension of an artery wall 55 may advantageously provide stablecontact force between the helical push wire electrode 22 and the arterywall 55 and/or hold the helical push wire electrode 22 in place even asthe artery moves with respiratory motion and pulsing blood flow. Becausethis diameter 52 of the renal artery RA varies from patient to patient,the treatment assembly 21 may be capable of assuming a range ofdiameters between the delivery diameter and the maximum diameter.

As provided above, one feature of the deployed therapeutic assembly 21in the helical configuration is that one or more portions of the helicalpush wire electrode 22 may be placed into stable contact with a vesselwall to reliably create consistent lesions. Further, the helical pushwire electrode 22 may be designed with appropriate spacing between eachwinding to achieve a desired lesion configuration within the targetvessel. Another feature of several embodiments of the therapeuticassembly 21 having the helical configuration described above is that theassembly may be expanded to fit within a relatively wide range ofdifferent vessel diameters and/or with various tortuosities.

It should be understood that the embodiments provided herein may be usedin conjunction with one or more helical push wire electrodes 22. Asdescribed in greater detail below, the helical push wire electrodes 22,when deployed, is configured to provide energy delivery to the renalartery without any repositioning. In some patients, it may be desirableto create a single lesion or multiple focal lesions that are spacedaround the circumference of the renal artery. A single focal lesion withdesired longitudinal and/or circumferential dimensions, one or morefull-circle lesions, multiple circumferentially spaced focal lesions ata common longitudinal position, spiral-shaped lesions, interruptedspiral lesions, generally linear lesions, and/or multiple longitudinallyspaced discrete focal lesions at a common circumferential position maybe created. In still further embodiments, lesions having a variety ofother geometric shapes or patterns may be created. The wire couldinclude varying insulation along its length to allow the wire to createmore discrete lesions. A patterned electrode having a plurality ofconductive sections separated by the insulated portions may be createdby insulating various or selected portions of the wire. The insulatedportions or areas are restricting delivering of energy to tissues andthus discrete lesions may be created by the un-insulated portions.

Depending on the size and shape of the helical push wire electrodes 22,the formed lesions may be spaced around the circumference of the renalartery and the same formed lesions also may be spaced along thelongitudinal axis of the renal artery. In particular embodiments, it isdesirable for each formed lesion to cover at least 10% of the vesselcircumference to increase the probability of affecting the renal plexus.Furthermore, to achieve denervation of the kidney, it is considereddesirable for the formed lesion pattern, as viewed from a proximal ordistal end of the vessel, to at least extend approximately all the wayaround the circumference of the renal artery. Therefore, each formedlesion covers an arc of the circumference, and each of the lesions, asviewed from an end of the vessel, abut or overlap adjacent or otherlesions in the pattern to create either an actual circumferential lesionor a virtually circumferential lesion. The formed lesions defining anactual circumferential lesion lie in a single plane perpendicular to alongitudinal axis of the renal artery. A virtually circumferentiallesion is defined by multiple lesions that may not all lie in a singleperpendicular plane, although more than one lesion of the pattern can beso formed. At least one of the formed lesions comprising the virtuallycircumferential lesion is axially spaced apart from other lesions. Inone example, a virtually circumferential lesion can comprise six lesionscreated in a single helical pattern along the renal artery such thateach lesion spans an arc extending along at least one sixth of thevessel circumference such that the resulting pattern of lesionscompletely encompasses the vessel circumference when viewed from an endof the vessel. In other examples, however, a virtually circumferentiallesion can comprise a different number of lesions. It is also desirablethat each lesion be sufficiently deep to penetrate into and beyond theadventitia to affect the renal plexus. However, lesions that are toodeep (e.g., >5 mm) run the risk of interfering with non-target tissueand tissue structures (e.g., a renal vein). Therefore, a controlleddepth of energy treatment is also desirable.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, electrodes 22 may be configured as suchthat a desired arrangement of lesions is formed. For example, the axialdistances between the deployed helical electrodes 22 may be selected sothat the edges of the lesions formed by one or more portions of thehelical electrodes 22 on the renal artery wall 55 are overlapping ornon-overlapping. One or both of the axial distances xx or yy may beabout 2 mm to about 10 mm. In one embodiment, the axial distances xx oryy may be in the range of about 2 mm to about 5 mm. The axial distancexx may be less than, about equal to, or greater than the axial distanceyy.

Referring to FIG. 3B, in the illustrated example, multiple helicalelectrodes 22 are connected to the energy generator 26 (FIG. 1) and aresized and configured to contact an internal wall of the renal artery. Inother embodiments, each helical electrode 22 may be powered separately.In the illustrated example, the helical push wire electrodes 22 may beoperated in a monopolar or unipolar mode. In this arrangement, a returnpath for the applied RF electric field is established, e.g., by anexternal dispersive electrode (shown as element 38 in FIGS. 1 and 2),also called an indifferent electrode or neutral electrode. The monopolarapplication of RF electric field energy serves to ohmically orresistively heat tissue in the vicinity of the electrode. Theapplication of the RF electrical field thermally injures tissue. Thetreatment objective is to thermally induce neuromodulation (e.g.,necrosis, thermal alteration or ablation) in the targeted neural fibers.The thermal injury forms a lesion in the vessel wall. Alternatively, aRF electrical field may be delivered with an oscillating or pulsedintensity that does not thermally injure the tissue. In that case,neuromodulation in the targeted nerves is accomplished by electricalmodification of the nerve signals.

The active surface area of the helical push wire electrode 22 is definedas the energy transmitting area that may be placed in intimate contactagainst tissue. Too much contact area between the electrode and thevessel wall may cause excessively high temperatures at or around theinterface between the tissue and the electrode, thereby generatingexcessive heat. Excessive heat may create a lesion that iscircumferentially too large. This may also lead to an undesirablethermal application to the vessel wall. In some instances, too muchcontact can also lead to small, shallow lesions. Too little contactbetween the electrode and the vessel wall may result in superficialheating of the vessel wall, thereby creating a lesion that is too small(e.g., <10% of vessel circumference) and/or too shallow.

The active surface area of contact (ASA) between the electrode 22 andthe inner vessel wall (e.g., renal artery wall 55) affects theefficiency and control of the generation of a thermal energy fieldacross the vessel wall to thermally affect targeted neural fibers in therenal plexus. While the ASA of the electrode is important for creatinglesions of desirable size and depth, the ratio between the ASA and totalsurface area (TSA) of the helical push wire electrode 22 and electrode46 is also important. The ASA to TSA ratio influences lesion formationin two ways: (1) the degree of resistive heating via the electric field,and (2) the effects of blood flow or other convective cooling elementssuch as injected or infused saline. For example, an RF electric fieldcauses lesion formation via resistive heating of tissue exposed to theelectric field. The higher the ASA to TSA ratio (i.e., the greater thecontact between the electrode and tissue), the greater the resistiveheating, e.g., the larger the lesion that is formed.

FIG. 3D illustrates an example profile of two electrodes havingdifferent cross sectional shapes, and the temperature zones created as aresult of RF energy radiated by the two differently shaped electrodes.The electrode 41 is representative of a round-wire electrode and theelectrode 42 is representative of a flat-wire electrode. As illustrated,the electrodes 41 and 42 are provided, for example, to emit RF energy tocreate ablation. The temperature of the blood is 37° C., which is lowerthan the operating temperature of the electrodes 41 and 42. Accordingly,the flow of blood 40 a carries away some of the heat generated by theelectrodes 1 and 2. Further, due to the stagnancy of the blood 40 b nearthe vessel wall with electrode 1, the temperature of the tissue close tothe surface of the artery 43 may rise significantly as a result ofgathering heat generated by the electrode 41. As a result, the desiredtemperature zone 44 tends to be closer to the surface of the artery 43and a shallower lesion will be created. In contrast, the desiredtemperature zone 45 of the electrode 42 is deeper. Accordingly, becausemost of the nerves are 2-3 mm away from the surface of the artery, withthe same amount of energy, the electrode 42 may provide a better (i.e.,the lesion is closer to the nerve, larger or deeper) linear ablationthan the electrode 41. The electrode 42 may also reduce the risk ofcharring the surface of the artery 43.

In addition, a flat wire allows flexibility in the radial direction.Therefore, it allows the wire to expand in diameter upon deployment butcauses less pressure on the inner artery lumen than a round wire. Theflexibility also allows it to conform better to non-symmetric arterieswhen making contact than the round-wire electrode 41. Because the flatgeometry inherently provides resistance to twisting, more consistentcontact of the flat surface with the artery wall can be maintained. Asdescribed above with reference to FIG. 3D, the flat-wire electrode 42 ismore flexible in the radial dimension, and causes less pressure on theinner artery lumen. It also conforms better to non-symmetric arterieswhen making contact than the round-wire electrode 41. Further, theflat-wire electrode 42 maintains a more consistent pitch in the helicalstructure when expanded due to more contact area with the artery wall.This can be understood by considering that a structure with a crosssection having a width greater than its height will, respond differentlyto a force applied normal to its width than it will to the samemagnitude of force applied normal to its height. Particularly, the wirewill require less force to flex in the direction of its height, than itwill to flex in the direction of the width.

The flow of blood over the non-contacting portion of the electrode (thatis, the TSA minus the ASA) provides conductive and convective cooling ofthe electrode, thereby carrying excess thermal energy away from theinterface between the vessel wall and electrode. If the ratio of ASA toTSA is too high (e.g., more than 50%), resistive heating of the tissuemay be too aggressive and not enough excess thermal energy may becarried away, resulting in excessive heat generation and the increasedpotential for stenotic injury, thrombus formation and undesirable lesionsize. If the ratio of ASA to TSA is too low (e.g., 10%), then there istoo little resistive heating of tissue, thereby resulting in superficialheating and smaller and shallower lesions. In a representativeembodiment, the ASA of the energy delivery elements 24 contacting tissuemay be expressed as 0.25 TSA≦ASA≦0.50 TSA. An ASA to TSA ratio of over50% may still be used without excessive heat generation by compensatingwith a reduced power delivery algorithm and/or by using convectivecooling of the electrode by exposing it to blood flow. Electrode coolingcan be achieved by injecting or infusing cooling liquids such as saline(e.g., room temperature saline or chilled saline) over the electrode andinto the blood stream.

III. SELECTED EMBODIMENTS OF RENAL DENERVATION SYSTEMS

The representative embodiments provided herein include features that maybe combined with one another and with the features of other disclosedembodiments. In an effort to provide a concise description of theseembodiments, not all features of an actual implementation are describedin the specification. It should be appreciated that in the developmentof any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or designproject, numerous implementation-specific decisions should be made toachieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance withsystem-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from oneimplementation to another.

FIG. 5A illustrates an embodiment of a treatment device 112 including anelongated shaft 116 having different mechanical and functional regionsconfigured in accordance with an embodiment of the technology. Theelongated shaft 116 of the treatment device 112, for example, includes adistal region with a therapeutic or treatment assembly 121 for deliveryand deployment at a renal artery site for treatment and, in particular,for renal denervation. Disposed at a proximal end of the elongated shaft116 is a handle assembly 134 for manipulation of the elongated shaft 116and the therapeutic assembly 121. More specifically, the handle assembly134 is configured with an actuator to provide for remote operation of acontrol member for controlling or transforming the therapeutic assembly121 between a delivery state and a deployed state. Further detailsregarding suitable handle assemblies may be found, for example, in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/759,641, “Handle Assemblies forIntravascular Treatment Devices and Associated System sand Methods” toClark et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The treatment device 112 is configured to deliver the therapeuticassembly 121 to a treatment site in a delivery (e.g., low-profile) statein which the assembly 121 is substantially linear (e.g., straight) suchthat the electrodes are collapsed and in contact with the distalelectrode support section. The electrodes wind around the distalelectrode support section with an axis that is substantially alignedwith the axis of the distal electrode support section. Once located atthe treatment site within the renal artery, the handle assembly 134 isoperated for actuation of a control member that transforms thetherapeutic assembly 121 from the delivery state to a deployed state.One end of the control wire may be affixed at or near the proximal endof the distal electrode support section, and the opposite end of thecontrol wire may terminate within the handle assembly 134. The tensionin the control wire 168 provides for a proximally and axially directedforce that acts on the helical push wire electrodes. Under the influenceof the tension force in the control wire 168 and the radial constraintof the patient's renal arterial wall, the electrodes expand, deployinginto the helical geometry to create stable contact with the wall of therenal artery.

The control member 168 can be a control rod or wire that extends theaxial length of the catheter device 112 from at or near the distal endof the electrode support section and/or the shaft to the handle assembly134. The control wire 168 can comprise ultra high molecular weight(UHMW) fiber, such as, for example, high strength, gel-spun fiber soldunder the trademark SPECTRA or other sufficiently strong polyethylenefiber. Alternatively, nitinol, a para-aramid synthetic fiber sold underthe trademark KEVLAR, or other mono or multi filament types can be usedprovided that they are compatible with the application and can transferthe tensile force to the proximal end of the therapeutic assembly 121.

To provide for the desired expansion upon deployment, the distalelectrode support section may be a tubular member 122. In variousembodiments, the tubular support structure 122 may be electricallynonconductive. The tubular support structure 122 may be formed frombiocompatible metals and/or polymers, including PET, polyamide,polyimide, polyethylene block amide copolymer, polypropylene, or PEEKpolymers. Moreover, in some embodiments, the tubular support structure122 may be formed, at least in part, from radiopaque materials that arecapable of being imaged fluoroscopically to allow a clinician todetermine if the tubular support structure 122 is appropriately placedand/or deployed in the renal artery. Radiopaque materials may includebarium sulfate, bismuth trioxide, bismuth subcarbonate, powderedtungsten, powdered tantalum, or various formulations of certain metals,including gold, platinum, and platinum-iridium. These materials may bedirectly incorporated into the tubular support structure 122 or may forma partial or complete coating of the tubular support structure 122.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the treatment device 112 comprisinghelical push wire electrodes in a delivery state (e.g., low-profile orcollapsed configuration) outside of a patient in accordance with anembodiment of the present technology, and FIG. 5C is a perspective viewof the treatment device 112 comprising helical push wire electrodes in adeployed state (e.g., expanded configuration).

Referring to FIGS. 5B and 5C, the distal electrode support structure 122comprises a tubular member having a central lumen to define alongitudinal axis B-B. In one embodiment, the cross sectional shape ofthe distal electrode support structure 122 can be a square cross sectionwhich may create a smaller profile allowing use with a smaller diametercatheter. In one embodiment, a portion of the distal support structure122 is square and a portion of the distal support structure 122 isrounded. In another embodiment, the entire distal support structure 122is square. The illustrated treatment device 112 comprises a shaft 125,one or more helical push wire electrodes 123, a distal electrode supportsection 122, and thermocouple wires 124. The shaft 125 is mounted to thedistal electrode support section 122. A joint may be provided to couplethe distal electrode support section 122 to the shaft 125, therebyproviding the desired transfer of torque from the shaft 125 to theelectrode support section 122 when navigating to the treatment site.More specifically, each end of the electrode support section 122 and theshaft 125 may respectively include mating notches that permit the endsof the tubular members to interlock. In some embodiments, disposed aboutthe joint is a stainless steel sleeve that is crimped about the junctureto provide additional support to the joint. In various embodiments, theshaft 125 is fixed to the distal electrode support section 122 byadhesive, welding, crimping, over-molding, and/or soldering.

The shaft 125 and the distal electrode support section 122 may togetherdefine a lumen where the thermocouple wires 124 are disposed. Thethermocouple wires 124 are disposed along or in parallel to thelongitudinal axis B-B. In one embodiment, the thermocouple wires 124 maybe fixed to the proximal end 122 a of the distal electrode supportsection 122. In another embodiment, the thermocouple wires 124 may befixed to the distal end 122 b of the distal electrode support section122.

In further embodiments, the helical push wire electrodes 123 may becoupled to the thermocouple wires 124 at the distal end 122 b of thedistal electrode support section 122. The helical push wire electrodes123 and the thermocouple wires 124 may be coupled by soldering or a bymechanical lock. In one embodiment, the therapeutic assembly maycomprise a cover 129 encasing the joint of the helical push wireelectrodes and the thermocouple wires. The cover 129 may be made ofvarious materials. In one embodiment, the cover 129 may be coated withTitanium Nitride (TiN). In further embodiments, the therapeutic assemblymay comprise a temperature sensor, such as a thermometer. In oneembodiment, the cover 129 encloses the temperature sensor. The cover 129could also be used to electrically connect the supply wire to multiplewire electrodes (such as electrode 123). Accordingly, the same supplywire would also transmit temperature and impedance measurements. Inembodiments with a single electrode (such as electrode 603 illustratedin FIG. 6A), the same supply wire may act as a TC wire which cantransmit temperature and impedance.

In various embodiments, the helical push wire electrodes 123 aredisposed within the lumen defined by the shaft 125. The treatment device112 may further comprise sheaths 126 defining additional lumens wherethe helical push wire electrodes 123 are disposed. The electrodes 123surrounded by the sheaths 126 are disposed in parallel to thelongitudinal axis B-B. The helical push wire electrodes 123 wind aroundthe distal electrode support section 122 and are axially and radiallyspaced from one another about the distal electrode support section 122.When in the delivery configuration, the helical push wire electrodes 123are in contact with the distal electrode support section 122. When inthe deployed configuration, the helical push wire electrodes 123 areexpanded from the distal electrode support section 122. When deliveredinto the renal artery, the deployed helical push wire electrodes 123 arein contact with the inner wall of the renal artery.

The distal electrode support section 122 may comprise one or more slots130. In various embodiments, the slots 130 may be adjacent to or inclose proximity to the distal end of the distal electrode supportsection 122. The slots 130 may be evenly spaced along a circumference ofthe distal electrode support section 122. The slots 130 hold the distalportion 123 b of the electrodes 123 close to the surface of the distalelectrode support section 122 and may prevent the distal portion 123 bof the electrodes 123 from buckling.

In various embodiments, the helical push wire electrodes 123 areretractable. The proximal ends 123 c of the helical push wire electrodes123 are retractable whereas the distal ends of the helical push wire 123are fixed. Pushing the helical push wire 123 relative to the distal endof the therapeutic assembly places the electrodes 123 into thedeployment configuration. When the electrode 122 is placed undercompression, at least a portion of the electrode 122 (in the absence ofany restriction in the radial direction) deflects from the substantiallystraight shape of FIG. 5B to form the substantial helical shape of FIG.5C. Pulling the helical push wire 123 relative to the distal end of thetherapeutic assembly places the electrodes 123 into the deliveryconfiguration.

In some embodiments, fixing the distal ends of the electrodes can createa more stable structure as compared to electrodes having free-floatingdistal ends. Although, electrodes with free-floating distal ends mayoffer other advantages. The electrodes with fixed distal ends mayprovide a secure and steady contact with the inner wall of the renalartery when the electrodes are deployed. As both ends and the pitch ofthe helical structure are fixed, helixes of different diameters may beformed by adjusting the retractable end of the electrode 123. As such,therapeutic assemblies with helical push wire electrodes may be used invessels of various sizes, where the inner wall of a renal arteryconstrains the size of the helix that the electrode 122 creates. Theelectrodes 123 wind around the distal electrode support section andprovide a fixed number of windings. As such, the electrodes 123 form aset of intertwined helixes are formed. In one embodiment, a push rod(not shown) may be coupled to the proximal end of the electrode 123 cfor adjusting purposes. In various embodiments, as illustrated in FIG.5C, the retractable end of the electrode 123 may be joined such thatmultiple electrodes 123 may be adjusted collectively and uniformly. In afurther embodiment, a push rod may be coupled to the distal end of theelectrodes 123 rather than the proximal end.

The proximal portions 123 a of the electrodes may be surrounded byproximal sleeves 127. As illustrated in FIG. 5C, the proximal sleeves127 may prevent the proximal portions 123 a from buckling and forming asharp curve when the electrodes 123 are in the deployed configuration.The proximal sleeves 127 may provide the proximal portions 123 a of theelectrodes 123 with a curve 130. In various embodiments, the proximalsleeves 127 are positioned to provide a curve 130 that is less than apredetermined value to prevent the electrodes 123 from forming sharpangles on the proximal portion. The proximal sleeves 127 may alsoprovide a lubricated or low-friction lumen to allow the electrodes 123to be pushed out of and retracted back into the sleeves. The distalportions 123 b of the electrodes 123 may be further surrounded by distalsleeves 128, or in place of sleeves the distal portion 123 b may belaminated or coated.

Further, as illustrated in FIG. 5B, the proximal sleeves 127 and thedistal sleeves 128 may provide complete or near complete insulation ofelectrodes 123 when the therapeutic assembly is in the deliveryconfiguration with helical push wire electrodes. Accordingly, theimpedance of the deployed electrodes is reduced and more RF energy isdelivered. In the illustrated example, the proximal sleeves 127 and thedistal sleeves 128, or the proximal sleeves 127 and the distal coatingor lamination on the electrode 123 have a spacing between them in thecollapsed configuration. In other embodiments, the sleeves 127 and 128,or the proximal sleeves 127 and the distal coating may make contact oreven overlap, that is, the distal sleeve 127 or lamination or coatingmay axially telescope within the lumen of the proximal sleeve 127. Inthe illustrated example, the electrodes 123 are round wires. In otherembodiments, the electrodes 123 may be flat wires or wires of othergeometries as previously described. In the case of flat wires, theelectrodes 123 can be positioned such that when deployed, the flatsurface is in contact with the inner wall of the renal artery. The fixeddistal end 122 b of the electrodes, the proximal sleeves 127 and thedistal sleeves 128 may prevent the flat-wire electrodes from rotatingand may ensure that the flat surface is in contact with the inner wallof the renal artery when the electrodes are deployed.

Referring to FIGS. 5E and 5F, the distal support section 122 may includehelical grooves 132 on its surface. The helical grooves 132 can beconfigured to correspond to the electrodes 123, such that in thecollapsed delivery configuration, the electrodes 123 are flush with (orat least partially recessed into) the surface of the distal supportsection 122. Accordingly, providing grooves can allow a smaller crosssection in the collapsed delivery configuration. Further, the treatmentdevice 112 can be provided with a smooth, low friction outer surface,which helps prevent the device from getting caught within the vesselwhen inserted into and retracted out of a guide catheter.

Therapeutic assemblies with helical push wire electrodes may providevariable power densities. In various embodiments, the wire may includedifferent insulation levels along its length to create discrete lesionsthat consume different levels of electric power. The proximal portions123 a of the electrodes may be insulated. Although various sizes ofhelix may be formed in arteries of different sizes, because the proximalportions are insulated, the surface of the electrodes, when deployed, isfixed. Accordingly, the electric power consumption is unaffected by theartery size. A flat wire may be insulated on its inner surface toprevent RF energy dissipation in the bloodstream. Accordingly, theelectrodes would deliver a greater percentage of power into the tissue.

The helical push wire electrode 123 is selectively transformable betweenthe delivery state (FIG. 5B) and the deployed state (FIG. 5C) byapplication of a force having at least a proximally directed axialcomponent and preferably applied at or near the proximal end 123 a totransform the entire electrode 123. In one embodiment, an axial forceapplied at or near the proximal end 123 a in the distal directiondeflects the electrode 123 such that it forms the helically-shapedsupport structure shown in FIG. 5C, thus bringing one or more portions123 c of the electrodes 123 into contact with the inner wall of therenal artery.

FIG. 5D is a cross sectional view of a treatment device 112 comprisinghelical push wire electrodes in accordance with an embodiment. In theillustrated example, the treatment device 112 comprises two electrodes123 that are placed opposite of each other. The gap 131 defined by theshaft 125 and the distal electrode support section 126 may be filledwith adhesives to maintain even distribution of the electrodes 123 aboutthe central axis of the therapeutic assembly and to keep the portions ofthe electrodes enclosed therein stationary. As such, both ends of thehelical structure formed by the electrodes 123 are fixed.

FIG. 5G illustrates an exemplary therapeutic assembly comprising pushwire electrodes 550 and 551. In this embodiment, a separate TC/supplywire pair 552 a-b, 553 a-b is coupled to each push wire electrode 550,551 respectively. In this manner, separate temperature measurements maybe obtained and each push wire electrode 550 may be energizedindependently. One push wire electrode 550 coupled with TC/supply wirepair 552 a-b will be described but it should be understood that thissame configuration could apply to the other push wire electrode 551 (orany other push wire electrode 550 for an embodiment with a plurality ofpush wire electrodes).

The TC/supply wire pair 552 a-b may run from the proximal end of thetreatment device 12 (shown in FIG. 1) through a lumen in the elongatedshaft 16 through a central lumen of the distal electrode support section24 out the push wire electrode's distal exit port 554. The TC/supplywire pair 552 a-b runs along the push wire electrode 550 itself, beingrouted across the inner (non-tissue contact) surface of the push wireelectrode 550. The TC/supply wire pair 552 a-b can be fixed to the pushwire electrode 550 at an attachment point 557 near the end of the distalsleeve 26 a. Alternatively, the TC/supply wire pair 552 a-b can berouted within a lumen of the distal sleeve 26 a and fixed to the distalsleeve 26 a itself at its end (i.e. exit port of the push wire electrode550).

The distal tip 556 of the push wire electrode 550 could be covered withadhesive 555 which protects the distal tip, configures the distal tip tobe atraumatic, as well as secures the TC/supply wires 552 a-b intoplace. As with previous embodiments, the TC/supply wire pair 552 a-bcould act as a wire to provide temperature and impedance measurements aswell as supply RF energy. Alternatively, RF energy could be supplied tothe distal tip with a separate RF supply wire and within the lumen ofthe catheter, provided the RF supply wire is electrically coupled to thepush wire electrode 550.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), a single TC/supply wire couldbe provided for a plurality of push wire electrodes. In this embodiment,the push wire electrodes would be electrically coupled within the distaltip thus energizing all push wire electrodes simultaneously. The distalpoint of attachment of the TC/supply wire to the push wire electrodewould be the measurement point of temperature. For certain embodiments,a single temperature measurement on a single push wire electrode couldbe sufficient.

Accordingly, the TC wires 552 a-b would be measuring the temperature ofthe push wire electrode 550 at a much closer proximity to tissue. Inembodiments where the TC wire terminates at the distal tip of thetreatment device, the temperature would read near the center of theartery lumen. Reading temperature farther from the target tissue site aswell as exposing the tip to a greater amount of blood flow could providea less accurate tissue temperature. giving more of an estimate of tissuetemperature.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the treatment device comprising ahelical push wire electrode in a delivery state in accordance with anembodiment. FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the treatment devicecomprising a helical push wire electrode in a deployed state inaccordance with an embodiment. Similar to the multiple-electrodeconfiguration illustrated in FIGS. 5B and 5C, the illustrated treatmentdevice comprises a shaft 601, one helical push wire electrode 603, adistal electrode support section 602, and thermocouple wires 606. In oneembodiment, the thermocouple wires 606 may be fixed to the distal end ofthe distal electrode support section 602 and coupled to the helical pushwire electrode 603. The proximal end of the helical push wire electrode603 is retractable whereas the distal end of the helical push wire 603is fixed. Pushing the helical push wire 603 relative to the distal endof the therapeutic assembly places the electrodes 603 into thedeployment configuration. When the electrode 602 is placed undertension, at least a portion of the electrode 602 (in the absence of anyrestriction in the radial direction) deflects from the substantiallystraight shape of FIG. 6A to form the substantial helical shape of FIG.6B. Pulling the helical push wire 603 relative to the distal end of thetherapeutic assembly places the electrodes 603 into the deliveryconfiguration.

FIG. 6C is a cross sectional view of a treatment device comprising ahelical push wire electrode in accordance with an embodiment. In theillustrated example, the treatment device comprise an electrode 603 thatis placed within the lumen defined by the shaft 601. The gap 610 definedby the shaft 601 and the distal electrode support section 602 may befilled with adhesives to keep the portion of the electrode 603 enclosedtherein stationary. As such, both ends of the helical structure formedby the electrode 603 are fixed.

IV. APPLYING ENERGY TO TISSUE VIA THE HELICAL PUSH WIRE ELECTRODE

Referring back to FIG. 1, the energy generator 26 may supply acontinuous or pulsed RF electric field to the helical push wireelectrode 22. The application of RF energy in pulses may allow theapplication of relatively higher energy levels (e.g., higher power),longer or shorter total duration times, and/or better controlledintravascular renal neuromodulation therapy. Pulsed energy may alsoallow for the use of a smaller electrode.

Although many of the embodiments described herein pertain to electricalsystems configured for the delivery of RF energy, it is contemplatedthat the desired treatment may be accomplished by other means, e.g., bycoherent or incoherent light; direct thermal modification (e.g., with aheated or cooled fluid or resistive heating element or cryogenicapplicator); microwave; ultrasound (including high intensity focusedultrasound); diode laser; radiation; a tissue heating fluid; and/or acryogenic refrigerant.

Energy delivery may be monitored and controlled via data collected withone or more sensors, such as temperature sensors (e.g., thermocouples,thermistors, etc.), impedance sensors, pressure sensors, opticalsensors, flow sensors, chemical sensors, etc., which may be incorporatedinto or on the helical push wire electrode 22, the distal electrodesupport section 24, and/or in/on adjacent areas on the distal portion20. A sensor may be incorporated into the helical push wire electrode 22in a manner that specifies whether the sensor(s) are in contact withtissue at the treatment site and/or are facing blood flow. The abilityto specify sensor placement relative to tissue and blood flow is highlysignificant, since a temperature gradient across the electrode from theside facing blood flow to the side in contact with the vessel wall maybe up to about 15° C. Significant gradients across the electrode inother sensed data (e.g., flow, pressure, impedance, etc.) also areexpected.

The sensor(s) may, for example, be incorporated on the side of one ormore helical push wire electrode 22 that contact the vessel wall at thetreatment site during power and energy delivery or may be incorporatedon the opposing side of one or more helical push wire electrode 22 thatface blood flow during energy delivery, and/or may be incorporatedwithin certain regions of the helical push wire electrode 22 (e.g.,distal, proximal, quadrants, etc.). In some embodiments, multiplesensors may be provided at multiple positions along the electrode orenergy delivery element array and/or relative to blood flow. Forexample, a plurality of circumferentially and/or longitudinally spacedsensors may be provided. In one embodiment, a first sensor may contactthe vessel wall during treatment, and a second sensor may face bloodflow.

Additionally or alternatively, various microsensors may be used toacquire data corresponding to the helical push wire electrode 22, thevessel wall and/or the blood flowing across the helical push wireelectrode 22. For example, arrays of micro thermocouples and/orimpedance sensors may be implemented to acquire data along the helicalpush wire electrode 22 or other parts of the treatment device. Sensordata may be acquired or monitored prior to, simultaneous with, or afterthe delivery of energy or in between pulses of energy, when applicable.The monitored data may be used in a feedback loop to better controltherapy, e.g., to determine whether to continue or stop treatment, andit may facilitate controlled delivery of an increased or reduced poweror a longer or shorter duration therapy.

V. PERTINENT ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

The following discussion provides further details regarding pertinentpatient anatomy and physiology. This section is intended to supplementand expand upon the previous discussion regarding the relevant anatomyand physiology, and to provide additional context regarding thedisclosed technology and the therapeutic benefits associated with renaldenervation. For example, as mentioned previously, several properties ofthe renal vasculature may inform the design of treatment devices andassociated methods for achieving renal neuromodulation via intravascularaccess, and impose specific design requirements for such devices.Specific design requirements may include accessing the renal artery,facilitating stable contact between the energy delivery elements of suchdevices and a luminal surface or wall of the renal artery, and/oreffectively modulating the renal nerves with the neuromodulatoryapparatus.

A. The Sympathetic Nervous System

The Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) is a branch of the autonomicnervous system along with the enteric nervous system and parasympatheticnervous system. It is always active at a basal level (called sympathetictone) and becomes more active during times of stress. Like other partsof the nervous system, the sympathetic nervous system operates through aseries of interconnected neurons. Sympathetic neurons are frequentlyconsidered part of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), although manylie within the central nervous system (CNS). Sympathetic neurons of thespinal cord (which is part of the CNS) communicate with peripheralsympathetic neurons via a series of sympathetic ganglia. Within theganglia, spinal cord sympathetic neurons join peripheral sympatheticneurons through synapses. Spinal cord sympathetic neurons are thereforecalled presynaptic (or preganglionic) neurons, while peripheralsympathetic neurons are called postsynaptic (or postganglionic) neurons.

At synapses within the sympathetic ganglia, preganglionic sympatheticneurons release acetylcholine, a chemical messenger that binds andactivates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on postganglionic neurons.In response to this stimulus, postganglionic neurons principally releasenoradrenaline (norepinephrine). Prolonged activation may elicit therelease of adrenaline from the adrenal medulla.

Once released, norepinephrine and epinephrine bind adrenergic receptorson peripheral tissues. Binding to adrenergic receptors causes a neuronaland hormonal response. The physiologic manifestations include pupildilation, increased heart rate, occasional vomiting, and increased bloodpressure. Increased sweating is also seen due to binding of cholinergicreceptors of the sweat glands.

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for up- anddown-regulating many homeostatic mechanisms in living organisms. Fibersfrom the SNS innervate tissues in almost every organ system, providingat least some regulatory function to things as diverse as pupildiameter, gut motility, and urinary output. This response is also knownas sympatho-adrenal response of the body, as the preganglionicsympathetic fibers that end in the adrenal medulla (but also all othersympathetic fibers) secrete acetylcholine, which activates the secretionof adrenaline (epinephrine) and to a lesser extent noradrenaline(norepinephrine). Therefore, this response that acts primarily on thecardiovascular system is mediated directly via impulses transmittedthrough the sympathetic nervous system and indirectly via catecholaminessecreted from the adrenal medulla.

Science typically looks at the SNS as an automatic regulation system,that is, one that operates without the intervention of consciousthought. Some evolutionary theorists suggest that the sympatheticnervous system operated in early organisms to maintain survival as thesympathetic nervous system is responsible for priming the body foraction. One example of this priming is in the moments before waking, inwhich sympathetic outflow spontaneously increases in preparation foraction.

1. The Sympathetic Chain

As shown in FIG. 7, the SNS provides a network of nerves that allows thebrain to communicate with the body. Sympathetic nerves originate insidethe vertebral column, toward the middle of the spinal cord in theintermediolateral cell column (or lateral horn), beginning at the firstthoracic segment of the spinal cord and are thought to extend to thesecond or third lumbar segments. Because its cells begin in the thoracicand lumbar regions of the spinal cord, the SNS is said to have athoracolumbar outflow. Axons of these nerves leave the spinal cordthrough the anterior rootlet/root. They pass near the spinal (sensory)ganglion, where they enter the anterior rami of the spinal nerves.However, unlike somatic innervation, they quickly separate out throughwhite rami connectors which connect to either the paravertebral (whichlie near the vertebral column) or prevertebral (which lie near theaortic bifurcation) ganglia extending alongside the spinal column.

In order to reach the target organs and glands, the axons should travellong distances in the body, and, to accomplish this, many axons relaytheir message to a second cell through synaptic transmission. The endsof the axons link across a space, the synapse, to the dendrites of thesecond cell. The first cell (the presynaptic cell) sends aneurotransmitter across the synaptic cleft where it activates the secondcell (the postsynaptic cell). The message is then carried to the finaldestination.

In the SNS and other components of the peripheral nervous system, thesesynapses are made at sites called ganglia. The cell that sends its fiberis called a preganglionic cell, while the cell whose fiber leaves theganglion is called a postganglionic cell. As mentioned previously, thepreganglionic cells of the SNS are located between the first thoracic(T1) segment and third lumbar (L3) segments of the spinal cord.Postganglionic cells have their cell bodies in the ganglia and sendtheir axons to target organs or glands.

The ganglia include not just the sympathetic trunks but also thecervical ganglia (superior, middle and inferior), which sendssympathetic nerve fibers to the head and thorax organs, and the celiacand mesenteric ganglia (which send sympathetic fibers to the gut).

2. Innervation of the Kidneys

As shown in FIG. 8, the kidney is innervated by the renal plexus (RP),which is intimately associated with the renal artery. The renal plexus(RP) is an autonomic plexus that surrounds the renal artery and isembedded within the adventitia of the renal artery. The renal plexus(RP) extends along the renal artery until it arrives at the substance ofthe kidney. Fibers contributing to the renal plexus (RP) arise from theceliac ganglion, the superior mesenteric ganglion, the aorticorenalganglion and the aortic plexus. The renal plexus (RP), also referred toas the renal nerve, is predominantly comprised of sympatheticcomponents. There is no (or at least very minimal) parasympatheticinnervation of the kidney.

Preganglionic neuronal cell bodies are located in the intermediolateralcell column of the spinal cord. Preganglionic axons pass through theparavertebral ganglia (they do not synapse) to become the lessersplanchnic nerve, the least splanchnic nerve, first lumbar splanchnicnerve, second lumbar splanchnic nerve, and travel to the celiacganglion, the superior mesenteric ganglion, and the aorticorenalganglion. Postganglionic neuronal cell bodies exit the celiac ganglion,the superior mesenteric ganglion, and the aorticorenal ganglion to therenal plexus (RP) and are distributed to the renal vasculature.

3. Renal Sympathetic Neural Activity

Messages travel through the SNS in a bidirectional flow. Efferentmessages may trigger changes in different parts of the bodysimultaneously. For example, the sympathetic nervous system mayaccelerate heart rate; widen bronchial passages; decrease motility(movement) of the large intestine; constrict blood vessels; increaseperistalsis in the esophagus; cause pupil dilation, piloerection (goosebumps) and perspiration (sweating); and raise blood pressure. Afferentmessages carry signals from various organs and sensory receptors in thebody to other organs and, particularly, the brain.

Hypertension, heart failure and chronic kidney disease are a few of manydisease states that result from chronic activation of the SNS,especially the renal sympathetic nervous system. Chronic activation ofthe SNS is a maladaptive response that drives the progression of thesedisease states. Pharmaceutical management of therenin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) has been a longstanding, butsomewhat ineffective, approach for reducing over-activity of the SNS.

As mentioned above, the renal sympathetic nervous system has beenidentified as a major contributor to the complex pathophysiology ofhypertension, states of volume overload (such as heart failure), andprogressive renal disease, both experimentally and in humans. Studiesemploying radiotracer dilution methodology to measure overflow ofnorepinephrine from the kidneys to plasma revealed increased renalnorepinephrine (NE) spillover rates in patients with essentialhypertension, particularly so in young hypertensive subjects, which inconcert with increased NE spillover from the heart, is consistent withthe hemodynamic profile typically seen in early hypertension andcharacterized by an increased heart rate, cardiac output, andrenovascular resistance. It is now known that essential hypertension iscommonly neurogenic, often accompanied by pronounced sympathetic nervoussystem overactivity.

Activation of cardiorenal sympathetic nerve activity is even morepronounced in heart failure, as demonstrated by an exaggerated increaseof NE overflow from the heart and the kidneys to plasma in this patientgroup. In line with this notion is the recent demonstration of a strongnegative predictive value of renal sympathetic activation on all-causemortality and heart transplantation in patients with congestive heartfailure, which is independent of overall sympathetic activity,glomerular filtration rate, and left ventricular ejection fraction.These findings support the notion that treatment regimens that aredesigned to reduce renal sympathetic stimulation have the potential toimprove survival in patients with heart failure.

Both chronic and end stage renal disease are characterized by heightenedsympathetic nervous activation. In patients with end stage renaldisease, plasma levels of norepinephrine above the median have beendemonstrated to be predictive for both all-cause death and death fromcardiovascular disease. This is also true for patients suffering fromdiabetic or contrast nephropathy. There is compelling evidencesuggesting that sensory afferent signals originating from the diseasedkidneys are major contributors to initiating and sustaining elevatedcentral sympathetic outflow in this patient group; this facilitates theoccurrence of the well known adverse consequences of chronic sympatheticover activity, such as hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy,ventricular arrhythmias, sudden cardiac death, insulin resistance,diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

(i) Renal Sympathetic Efferent Activity

Sympathetic nerves to the kidneys terminate in the blood vessels, thejuxtaglomerular apparatus and the renal tubules. Stimulation of therenal sympathetic nerves causes increased renin release, increasedsodium (Na+) reabsorption, and a reduction of renal blood flow. Thesecomponents of the neural regulation of renal function are considerablystimulated in disease states characterized by heightened sympathetictone and clearly contribute to the rise in blood pressure inhypertensive patients. The reduction of renal blood flow and glomerularfiltration rate as a result of renal sympathetic efferent stimulation islikely a cornerstone of the loss of renal function in cardio-renalsyndrome, which is renal dysfunction as a progressive complication ofchronic heart failure, with a clinical course that typically fluctuateswith the patient's clinical status and treatment. Pharmacologicstrategies to thwart the consequences of renal efferent sympatheticstimulation include centrally acting sympatholytic drugs, beta blockers(intended to reduce renin release), angiotensin converting enzymeinhibitors and receptor blockers (intended to block the action ofangiotensin II and aldosterone activation consequent to renin release)and diuretics (intended to counter the renal sympathetic mediated sodiumand water retention). However, the current pharmacologic strategies havesignificant limitations including limited efficacy, compliance issues,side effects and others.

(ii) Renal Sensory Afferent Nerve Activity

The kidneys communicate with integral structures in the central nervoussystem via renal sensory afferent nerves. Several forms of “renalinjury” may induce activation of sensory afferent signals. For example,renal ischemia, reduction in stroke volume or renal blood flow, or anabundance of adenosine enzyme may trigger activation of afferent neuralcommunication. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, this afferent communicationmight be from the kidney to the brain or might be from one kidney to theother kidney (via the central nervous system). These afferent signalsare centrally integrated and may result in increased sympatheticoutflow. This sympathetic drive is directed towards the kidneys, therebyactivating the RAAS and inducing increased renin secretion, sodiumretention, volume retention and vasoconstriction. Central sympatheticover activity also impacts other organs and bodily structures innervatedby sympathetic nerves such as the heart and the peripheral vasculature,resulting in the described adverse effects of sympathetic activation,several aspects of which also contribute to the rise in blood pressure.

The physiology therefore suggests that (i) modulation of tissue withefferent sympathetic nerves will reduce inappropriate renin release,salt retention, and reduction of renal blood flow, and that (ii)modulation of tissue with afferent sensory nerves will reduce thesystemic contribution to hypertension and other disease statesassociated with increased central sympathetic tone through its directeffect on the posterior hypothalamus as well as the contralateralkidney. In addition to the central hypotensive effects of afferent renaldenervation, a desirable reduction of central sympathetic outflow tovarious other sympathetically innervated organs such as the heart andthe vasculature is anticipated.

B. Additional Clinical Benefits of Renal Denervation

As provided above, renal denervation is likely to be valuable in thetreatment of several clinical conditions characterized by increasedoverall and particularly renal sympathetic activity such ashypertension, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetes, leftventricular hypertrophy, chronic end stage renal disease, inappropriatefluid retention in heart failure, cardio-renal syndrome, and suddendeath. Since the reduction of afferent neural signals contributes to thesystemic reduction of sympathetic tone/drive, renal denervation mightalso be useful in treating other conditions associated with systemicsympathetic hyperactivity. Accordingly, renal denervation may alsobenefit other organs and bodily structures innervated by sympatheticnerves, including those identified in FIG. 7. For example, as previouslydiscussed, a reduction in central sympathetic drive may reduce theinsulin resistance that afflicts people with metabolic syndrome and TypeII diabetics. Additionally, patients with osteoporosis are alsosympathetically activated and might also benefit from the downregulation of sympathetic drive that accompanies renal denervation.

C. Achieving Intravascular Access to the Renal Artery

In accordance with the present technology, neuromodulation of a leftand/or right renal plexus (RP), which is intimately associated with aleft and/or right renal artery, may be achieved through intravascularaccess. As FIG. 10A shows, blood moved by contractions of the heart isconveyed from the left ventricle of the heart by the aorta. The aortadescends through the thorax and branches into the left and right renalarteries. Below the renal arteries, the aorta bifurcates at the left andright iliac arteries. The left and right iliac arteries descend,respectively, through the left and right legs and join the left andright femoral arteries.

As FIG. 10B shows, the blood collects in veins and returns to the heart,through the femoral veins into the iliac veins and into the inferiorvena cava. The inferior vena cava branches into the left and right renalveins. Above the renal veins, the inferior vena cava ascends to conveyblood into the right atrium of the heart. From the right atrium, theblood is pumped through the right ventricle into the lungs, where it isoxygenated. From the lungs, the oxygenated blood is conveyed into theleft atrium. From the left atrium, the oxygenated blood is conveyed bythe left ventricle back to the aorta.

As will be described in greater detail later, the femoral artery may beaccessed and cannulated at the base of the femoral triangle justinferior to the midpoint of the inguinal ligament. A catheter may beinserted percutaneously into the femoral artery through this accesssite, passed through the iliac artery and aorta, and placed into eitherthe left or right renal artery. This comprises an intravascular paththat offers minimally invasive access to a respective renal arteryand/or other renal blood vessels.

The wrist, upper arm, and shoulder region provide other locations forintroduction of catheters into the arterial system. For example,catheterization of either the radial, brachial, or axillary artery maybe utilized in select cases. Catheters introduced via these accesspoints may be passed through the subclavian artery on the left side (orvia the subclavian and brachiocephalic arteries on the right side),through the aortic arch, down the descending aorta and into the renalarteries using standard angiographic technique.

D. Properties and Characteristics of the Renal Vasculature

Since neuromodulation of a left and/or right renal plexus (RP) may beachieved in accordance with the present technology through intravascularaccess, properties and characteristics of the renal vasculature mayimpose constraints upon and/or inform the design of apparatus, systems,and methods for achieving such renal neuromodulation. Some of theseproperties and characteristics may vary across the patient populationand/or within a specific patient across time, as well as in response todisease states, such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease, vasculardisease, end-stage renal disease, insulin resistance, diabetes,metabolic syndrome, etc. These properties and characteristics, asexplained herein, may have bearing on the efficacy of the procedure andthe specific design of the intravascular device. Properties of interestmay include, for example, material/mechanical, spatial, fluiddynamic/hemodynamic and/or thermodynamic properties.

As discussed previously, a catheter may be advanced percutaneously intoeither the left or right renal artery via a minimally invasiveintravascular path. However, minimally invasive renal arterial accessmay be challenging, for example, because as compared to some otherarteries that are routinely accessed using catheters, the renal arteriesare often extremely tortuous, may be of relatively small diameter,and/or may be of relatively short length. Furthermore, renal arterialatherosclerosis is common in many patients, particularly those withcardiovascular disease. Renal arterial anatomy also may varysignificantly from patient to patient, which further complicatesminimally invasive access. Significant inter-patient variation may beseen, for example, in relative tortuosity, diameter, length, and/oratherosclerotic plaque burden, as well as in the take-off angle at whicha renal artery branches from the aorta. Apparatus, systems and methodsfor achieving renal neuromodulation via intravascular access shouldaccount for these and other aspects of renal arterial anatomy and itsvariation across the patient population when minimally invasivelyaccessing a renal artery.

In addition to complicating renal arterial access, specifics of therenal anatomy also complicate establishment of stable contact betweenneuromodulatory apparatus and a luminal surface or wall of a renalartery. When the neuromodulatory apparatus includes an energy deliveryelement, such as an electrode, consistent positioning and appropriatecontact force applied by the energy delivery element to the vessel wallare important for predictability. However, navigation is impeded by thetight space within a renal artery, as well as tortuosity of the artery.Furthermore, establishing consistent contact is complicated by patientmovement, respiration, and/or the cardiac cycle because these factorsmay cause significant movement of the renal artery relative to theaorta, and the cardiac cycle may transiently distend the renal artery(i.e., cause the wall of the artery to pulse).

Even after accessing a renal artery and facilitating stable contactbetween neuromodulatory apparatus and a luminal surface of the artery,nerves in and around the adventia of the artery should be safelymodulated via the neuromodulatory apparatus. Effectively applyingthermal treatment from within a renal artery is non-trivial given thepotential clinical complications associated with such treatment. Forexample, the intima and media of the renal artery are highly vulnerableto thermal injury. As discussed in greater detail below, theintima-media thickness separating the vessel lumen from its adventitiameans that target renal nerves may be multiple millimeters distant fromthe luminal surface of the artery. Sufficient energy should be deliveredto or heat removed from the target renal nerves to modulate the targetrenal nerves without excessively cooling or heating the vessel wall tothe extent that the wall is frozen, desiccated, or otherwise potentiallyaffected to an undesirable extent. A potential clinical complicationassociated with excessive heating is thrombus formation from coagulatingblood flowing through the artery. Given that this thrombus may cause akidney infarct, thereby causing irreversible damage to the kidney,thermal treatment from within the renal artery should be appliedcarefully. Accordingly, the complex fluid mechanics and thermodynamicconditions present in the renal artery during treatment, particularlythose that may impact heat transfer dynamics at the treatment site, maybe important in applying energy (e.g., heating thermal energy) and/orremoving heat from the tissue (e.g., cooling thermal conditions) fromwithin the renal artery.

The neuromodulatory apparatus should also be configured to allow foradjustable positioning and repositioning of the energy delivery elementwithin the renal artery since location of treatment may also impactclinical efficacy. For example, it may be tempting to apply a fullcircumferential treatment from within the renal artery given that therenal nerves may be spaced circumferentially around a renal artery. Insome situations, full-circle lesion likely resulting from a continuouscircumferential treatment may be potentially related to renal arterystenosis. Therefore, the formation of more complex lesions along alongitudinal dimension of the renal artery via the mesh structuresdescribed herein and/or repositioning of the neuromodulatory apparatusto multiple treatment locations may be desirable. It should be noted,however, that a benefit of creating a circumferential ablation mayoutweigh the potential of renal artery stenosis or the risk may bemitigated with certain embodiments or in certain patients and creating acircumferential ablation could be a goal. Additionally, variablepositioning and repositioning of the neuromodulatory apparatus may proveto be useful in circumstances where the renal artery is particularlytortuous or where there are proximal branch vessels off the renal arterymain vessel, making treatment in certain locations challenging.Manipulation of a device in a renal artery should also considermechanical injury imposed by the device on the renal artery. Motion of adevice in an artery, for example by inserting, manipulating, negotiatingbends and so forth, may contribute to dissection, perforation, denudingintima, or disrupting the interior elastic lamina.

Blood flow through a renal artery may be temporarily occluded for ashort time with minimal or no complications. However, occlusion for asignificant amount of time should be avoided to prevent injury to thekidney such as ischemia. It could be beneficial to avoid occlusion alltogether or, if occlusion is beneficial to the embodiment, to limit theduration of occlusion, for example to 2-5 minutes.

Based on the above described challenges of (1) renal arteryintervention, (2) consistent and stable placement of the treatmentelement against the vessel wall, (3) effective application of treatmentacross the vessel wall, (4) positioning and potentially repositioningthe treatment apparatus to allow for multiple treatment locations, and(5) avoiding or limiting duration of blood flow occlusion, variousindependent and dependent properties of the renal vasculature that maybe of interest include, for example, (a) vessel diameter, vessel length,intima-media thickness, coefficient of friction, and tortuosity; (b)distensibility, stiffness and modulus of elasticity of the vessel wall;(c) peak systolic, end-diastolic blood flow velocity, as well as themean systolic-diastolic peak blood flow velocity, and mean/maxvolumetric blood flow rate; (d) specific heat capacity of blood and/orof the vessel wall, thermal conductivity of blood and/or of the vesselwall, and/or thermal convectivity of blood flow past a vessel walltreatment site and/or radiative heat transfer; (e) renal artery motionrelative to the aorta induced by respiration, patient movement, and/orblood flow pulsatility; and (f) the take-off angle of a renal arteryrelative to the aorta and tortuous renal arteries. These properties willbe discussed in greater detail with respect to the renal arteries.However, dependent on the apparatus, systems and methods utilized toachieve renal neuromodulation, such properties of the renal arteries,also may guide and/or constrain design characteristics.

As noted above, an apparatus positioned within a renal artery shouldconform to the geometry of the artery. Renal artery vessel diameter,DRA, typically is in a range of about 2-10 mm, with most of the patientpopulation having a DRA of about 4 mm to about 8 mm and an average ofabout 6 mm. Renal artery vessel length, LRA, between its ostium at theaorta/renal artery juncture and its distal branchings, generally is in arange of about 5-70 mm, and a significant portion of the patientpopulation is in a range of about 20-50 mm. Since the target renalplexus is embedded within the adventitia of the renal artery, thecomposite Intima-Media Thickness, IMT, (i.e., the radial outwarddistance from the artery's luminal surface to the adventitia containingtarget neural structures) also is notable and generally is in a range ofabout 0.5-2.5 mm, with an average of about 1.5 mm. Although a certaindepth of treatment is important to reach the target neural fibers, thetreatment should not be too deep (e.g., >5 mm from inner wall of therenal artery) to avoid non-target tissue and anatomical structures suchas the renal vein.

An additional property of the renal artery that may be of interest isthe degree of renal motion relative to the aorta, induced by respirationand/or blood flow pulsatility. A patient's kidney, which located at thedistal end of the renal artery, may move as much as 4″ cranially withrespiratory excursion. This may impart significant motion to the renalartery connecting the aorta and the kidney, thereby requiring from theneuromodulatory apparatus a unique balance of stiffness and flexibilityto maintain contact between the thermal treatment element and the vesselwall during cycles of respiration. Furthermore, the take-off anglebetween the renal artery and the aorta may vary significantly betweenpatients, and also may vary dynamically within a patient, e.g., due tokidney motion. The take-off angle generally may be in a range of about30 degrees-135 degrees.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedabove, it should be understood that they have been presented by way ofexample only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams maydepict an example architectural or other configuration for theinvention, which is done to aid in understanding the features andfunctionality that can be included in the invention. The invention isnot restricted to the illustrated example architectures orconfigurations, but the desired features can be implemented using avariety of alternative architectures and configurations. Indeed, it willbe apparent to one of skill in the art how alternative functional,logical or physical partitioning and configurations can be implementedto implement the desired features of the present invention. Also, amultitude of different constituent module names other than thosedepicted herein can be applied to the various partitions. Additionally,with regard to flow diagrams, operational descriptions and methodclaims, the order in which the steps are presented herein shall notmandate that various embodiments be implemented to perform the recitedfunctionality in the same order unless the context dictates otherwise.

Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplaryembodiments and implementations, it should be understood that thevarious features, aspects and functionality described in one or more ofthe individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to theparticular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can beapplied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the otherembodiments of the invention, whether or not such embodiments aredescribed and whether or not such features are presented as being a partof a described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the presentinvention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplaryembodiments.

Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unlessotherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposedto limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” shouldbe read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term“example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item indiscussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or“an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or thelike; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,”“standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construedas limiting the item described to a given time period or to an itemavailable as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompassconventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may beavailable or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, wherethis document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known toone of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass thoseapparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in thefuture.

The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “atleast,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instancesshall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or requiredin instances where such broadening phrases may be absent. The use of theterm “module” does not imply that the components or functionalitydescribed or claimed as part of the module are all configured in acommon package. Indeed, any or all of the various components of amodule, whether control logic or other components, can be combined in asingle package or separately maintained and can further be distributedin multiple groupings or packages or across multiple locations.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedabove, it should be understood that they have been presented by way ofexample only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams maydepict an example architectural or other configuration for theinvention, which is done to aid in understanding the features andfunctionality that can be included in the invention. The invention isnot restricted to the illustrated example architectures orconfigurations, but the desired features can be implemented using avariety of alternative architectures and configurations. Indeed, it willbe apparent to one of skill in the art how alternative functional,logical or physical partitioning and configurations can be implementedto implement the desired features of the present invention. Also, amultitude of different constituent module names other than thosedepicted herein can be applied to the various partitions. Additionally,with regard to flow diagrams, operational descriptions and methodclaims, the order in which the steps are presented herein shall notmandate that various embodiments be implemented to perform the recitedfunctionality in the same order unless the context dictates otherwise.

Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplaryembodiments and implementations, it should be understood that thevarious features, aspects and functionality described in one or more ofthe individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to theparticular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can beapplied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the otherembodiments of the invention, whether or not such embodiments aredescribed and whether or not such features are presented as being a partof a described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the presentinvention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplaryembodiments.

Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unlessotherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposedto limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” shouldbe read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term“example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item indiscussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or“an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or thelike; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,”“standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construedas limiting the item described to a given time period or to an itemavailable as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompassconventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may beavailable or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, wherethis document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known toone of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass thoseapparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in thefuture.

The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “atleast,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instancesshall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or requiredin instances where such broadening phrases may be absent. The use of theterm “module” does not imply that the components or functionalitydescribed or claimed as part of the module are all configured in acommon package. Indeed, any or all of the various components of amodule, whether control logic or other components, can be combined in asingle package or separately maintained and can further be distributedin multiple groupings or packages or across multiple locations.

Additionally, the various embodiments set forth herein are described interms of exemplary block diagrams, flow charts and other illustrations.As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art afterreading this document, the illustrated embodiments and their variousalternatives can be implemented without confinement to the illustratedexamples. For example, block diagrams and their accompanying descriptionshould not be construed as mandating a particular architecture orconfiguration.

1-26. (canceled)
 27. A catheter, comprising: a shaft having a proximalend and a distal end; and a therapeutic assembly at the distal end ofthe shaft, the shaft configured to deliver the therapeutic assembly to atreatment site within a vessel of a human patient, the therapeuticassembly configured to modulate one or more nerves within tissue at orotherwise proximate to a wall of the vessel, the therapeutic assemblyincluding— a support structure extending distally from the distal end ofthe shaft, and a wire electrode coupled to the support structure, thewire electrode having a helical portion extending around the supportstructure between a first and second position, wherein a length betweenthe first and second position is fixed, the wire electrode having aslidable portion proximal to the helical portion, the slidable portionconfigured to slide distally to expand the helical portion and to slideproximally to collapse the helical portion.
 28. The catheter of claim 27wherein: the wire electrode exits the distal end of the shaft at thefirst position; and the wire electrode and the support structure arecoupled at the second position.
 29. The catheter of claim 27 wherein:the shaft includes a lumen; and the wire electrode is configured toslide within the lumen.
 30. The catheter of claim 27 wherein: thehelical portion has a first surface facing toward the support structureand a second surface facing away from the support structure; and thefirst surface is more electrically insulated than the second surface.31. The catheter of claim 27 wherein: the wire electrode is a first wireelectrode; the helical portion is a first helical portion; the slidableportion is a first slidable portion; the therapeutic assembly furthercomprises a second wire electrode coupled to the support structure, thesecond wire electrode having a second helical portion extending aroundthe support structure between the first and second positions, the wireelectrode having a second slidable portion proximal to the secondhelical portion, the second slidable portion configured to slidedistally to expand the second helical portion and to slide proximally tocollapse the second helical portion; and the first and second helicalportions are intertwined.
 32. The catheter of claim 27, furthercomprising a distal sleeve or coating extending proximally from a distalconnection between the wire electrode and the support structure, whereina distal portion of the wire electrode between the helical portion andthe distal connection is disposed within the distal sleeve or coating.33. The catheter of claim 32, further comprising a sensor lead disposedwithin the distal sleeve or coating and extending along a length of thedistal portion of the wire electrode.
 34. The catheter of claim 27wherein a transverse cross section of the wire electrode at the helicalportion is not round.
 35. The catheter of claim 34 wherein thetransverse cross section has a greater width than height, the heightbeing perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the therapeutic assembly.36. The catheter of claim 34 wherein the helical portion has a firstflat surface facing away from the support structure, a second flatsurface facing toward the support structure, a first edge extendingalong one side of the wire electrode between the first and second flatsurfaces, and a second edge extending along an opposite side of the wireelectrode between the first and second flat surfaces.
 37. The catheterof claim 27, further comprising a proximal sleeve extending distallyfrom the distal end of the shaft, the slidable portion disposed withinthe proximal sleeve.
 38. The catheter of claim 37 wherein: distallysliding the slidable portion moves the proximal sleeve away from thesupport structure; and proximally sliding the slidable portion moves theproximal sleeve toward the support structure.
 39. The catheter of claim37 wherein the proximal sleeve is configured to guide a shape transitionof a given segment of the wire electrode between a shape of the helicalportion and a shape of the slidable portion.
 40. The catheter of claim37 wherein the proximal sleeve is more flexible than the shaft and lessflexible than the slidable portion.
 41. The catheter of claim 37 whereinthe proximal sleeve is electrically insulative.
 42. The catheter ofclaim 37 wherein the proximal sleeve is configured to prevent the wireelectrode from buckling and/or forming a sharp angle while distally orproximally sliding the slidable portion.
 43. A catheter, comprising: ashaft having a proximal end and a distal end; and a therapeutic assemblyat the distal end of the shaft, the shaft configured to deliver thetherapeutic assembly to a treatment site within a vessel of a humanpatient, the therapeutic assembly configured to modulate one or morenerves within tissue at or otherwise proximate to a wall of the vessel,the therapeutic assembly including— a support structure extendingdistally from the distal end of the shaft, a first wire electrodecoupled to the support structure, the first wire electrode having afirst helical portion extending around the support structure and a firstslidable portion proximal to the first helical portion, the firstslidable portion configured to slide distally to expand the firsthelical portion and to slide proximally to collapse the first helicalportion, and a second wire electrode coupled to the support structure,the second wire electrode having a second helical portion extendingaround the support structure and a second slidable portion proximal tothe second helical portion, the second slidable portion configured toslide distally to expand the second helical portion and to slideproximally to collapse the second helical portion, wherein the first andsecond helical portions are intertwined.
 44. The catheter of claim 43wherein: the first and second wire electrodes are configured to exit thedistal end of the shaft at a first position; the first and second wireelectrodes and the support structure are coupled by a distal connectionhaving a second position; and a length of the therapeutic assembly fromthe first position to the second position is fixed.
 45. The catheter ofclaim 43, further comprising: a first proximal sleeve extending distallyfrom the distal end of the shaft, the first slidable portion disposedwithin the first proximal sleeve; and a second proximal sleeve extendingdistally from the distal end of the shaft, the second slidable portiondisposed within the second proximal sleeve.
 46. A catheter, comprising:a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; and a therapeuticassembly at the distal end of the shaft, the shaft configured to deliverthe therapeutic assembly to a treatment site within a vessel of a humanpatient, the therapeutic assembly configured to modulate one or morenerves within tissue at or otherwise proximate to a wall of the vessel,the therapeutic assembly including— a support structure extendingdistally from the distal end of the shaft, and a wire electrode coupledto the support structure, the wire electrode having a helical portionextending around the support structure and a slidable portion proximalto the helical portion, the slidable portion configured to slidedistally to expand the helical portion from a delivery state to adeployed state and to slide proximally to collapse the helical portionfrom the deployed state to the delivery state, wherein— the helicalportion is distally coupled to the support structure by a distalconnection, the helical portion in the deployed state tapers distallytoward the distal connection such that a helical width of the helicalportion decreases toward the distal connection, the helical width beingperpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the therapeutic assembly, andthe helical portion in the deployed state tapers proximally toward thedistal end of the shaft such that the helical width of the helicalportion decreases toward the distal end of the shaft.
 47. The catheterof claim 46 wherein: the wire electrode is configured to exit the distalend of the shaft at a first position; the distal connection has a secondposition; and a length of the therapeutic assembly from the firstposition to the second position is fixed.
 48. The catheter of claim 46,further comprising a proximal sleeve extending distally from the distalend of the shaft, the slidable portion disposed within the proximalsleeve.
 49. A method, comprising: advancing a shaft along a transluminalpath to deliver a therapeutic assembly at a distal portion of the shaftto a treatment site within a vessel of a human patient, the therapeuticassembly including— a support structure extending distally from thedistal portion, and a wire electrode having a helical portion extendingaround the support structure and a slidable portion proximal to thehelical portion; pushing the slidable portion distally to expand thehelical portion; modulating one or more nerves of the patient using thetherapeutic assembly after pushing the slidable portion distally; andpulling the slidable portion proximally to collapse the helical portion.50. The method of claim 49 wherein the vessel is a renal artery.
 51. Themethod of claim 49 wherein a length of the helical portion along alongitudinal axis of the therapeutic assembly does not change when theslidable portion is pushed distally or pulled proximally.
 52. The methodof claim 49, further comprising measuring a condition at the treatmentsite using a sensor operably connected to a sensor lead extendingthrough a distal sleeve or coating extending proximally from a distalconnection between the wire electrode and the support structure.
 53. Themethod of claim 49 wherein: pushing the slidable portion distally movesthe wire electrode into contact with an inner wall of the vessel; andmodulating the one or more nerves includes delivering energy to the oneor more nerves via a surface of the wire electrode facing toward theinner wall while inhibiting delivery of energy into blood within thevessel via insulation disposed along a side of the wire electrode facingtoward the support structure.
 54. The method of claim 49 whereinmodulating the one or more nerves includes delivering energy to the oneor more nerves via a flat surface of the wire electrode facing toward aninner wall of the vessel.
 55. The method of claim 49 wherein: pushingthe slidable portion distally includes sliding the slidable portionthrough a proximal sleeve extending distally from a position along alongitudinal axis of the therapeutic assembly at which the wireelectrode exits the distal portion; and pulling the slidable portionproximally includes sliding the slidable portion through the proximalsleeve.
 56. The method of claim 55 wherein: pushing the slidable portiondistally includes guiding a shape transition of a given segment of thewire electrode from a shape of the slidable portion toward a shape ofthe helical portion; and pulling the slidable portion of the wireelectrode proximally includes guiding a shape transition of a givensegment of the wire electrode from a shape of the helical portion towarda shape of the slidable portion.
 57. The method of claim 55 wherein:pushing the slidable portion distally includes moving at least a portionof the proximal sleeve away from the support structure; and pulling theslidable portion proximally includes moving at least a portion of theproximal sleeve toward the support structure.